Within the intricate world of Masashi Kishimoto’s Naruto, an elite group of shinobi stood apart for their sheer power and influence. The group went by the name of the Akatsuki. From the shadows emerged warriors of exceptional prowess, enigmatic masterminds, and former legendary prodigies, each of which wielded unique powers. Moreover, their powers were capable enough of shaking the very foundations of the shinobi realm. So, here is a ranked list of some of the Akatsuki members who were called the true powerhouses.
Nagato – The Mastermind Behind the Akatsuki
Affiliation: Amegakure
Clan: Uzumaki
Nagato, also known as Pain, was a mastermind behind the Akatsuki’s operations. He formed the group alongside Yahiko and Konan with the aim to protect the Village Hidden in the Rain. After Yahiko’s death, Nagato took command, aligning the Akatsuki with Madara Uchiha’s world domination plans.
Using the Rinnegan, Nagato controlled the Six Paths of Pain, manipulating their unique powers to wreak havoc. His power nearly brought devastation to the Hidden Leaf Village during the assault led by the Six Paths.
Nagato’s mastery of the Rinnegan, especially his ability to absorb and manipulate chakra, made him a formidable foe. In a display of exceptional endurance and skill, he nearly succeeded in defeating Naruto and Killer B, showing the immense power wielded by the Six Paths of Pain under his command.
Itachi Uchiha – The Tragic Prodigy
Affiliation: Konohagakure
Clan: Uchiha
Itachi Uchiha, a prodigy of the Uchiha Clan, was ensnared in a tragic destiny. Forced to eliminate his clan by Danzo’s scheme, Itachi became a rogue ninja. Notably, his Mangekyou Sharingan bestowed him with powers like Susanoo, Amaterasu, and Tsukuyomi.
Known for his extensive knowledge of the Uchiha Clan’s forbidden techniques, Itachi wielded Izanami, a technique that was crucial in defeating powerful adversaries like Kabuto. Besides, his utilization of Izanami, coupled with his strategic brilliance, enabled him to overcome formidable opponents. Aside from Kabuto, he even went against his brother, Sasuke Uchiha, and almost defeated him while he was terminally ill. Such an impressive show of his resilience only proved his prowess despite his tragic circumstances.
Sasuke Uchiha – The Avenger Turned Savior
Affiliation: Konohagakure
Clan: Uchiha
Driven by a thirst for vengeance against the Hidden Leaf, Sasuke Uchiha momentarily allied with the Akatsuki. His quest for revenge led him to confront the Eight-Tails, showing his immense strength and determination.
Acquiring the Rinnegan later in his journey, Sasuke played a pivotal role in sealing Kaguya Otsutsuki during the Fourth Great Ninja War in the Naruto series. In addition, Sasuke’s mastery of the Rinnegan and his contribution to Kaguya’s defeat solidified his status as one of the most powerful Akatsuki members in history.
Obito Uchiha – The Master Manipulator
Affiliation: Konohagakure
Clan: Uchiha
Presumed dead after the Third Great Ninja War, Obito resurfaced under Madara Uchiha’s guidance. Possessing the Mangekyou Sharingan and the unique Kamui ability, he could render parts of his body intangible, making him a formidable foe.
Obito’s manipulation skills and his eventual acquisition of the Rinnegan during the Fourth Great Ninja War cemented his status as a major threat. His ability to manipulate time and space in the genjutsu world and Rinnegan empowered him with the Ten-Tails’ jinchuriki powers. Unsurprisingly, this further led to his overwhelming dominance during the Fourth Great Ninja War.
Madara Uchiha – The Ultimate Shinobi
Affiliation: Konohagakure (formerly), Uchiha Clan
Clan: Uchiha
Madara Uchiha is a legendary figure in the shinobi world and stood at the peak of power. His mastery over the Rinnegan, mixed with powers like the Infinite Tsukuyomi and Susanoo, made him an indomitable force. As the Ten-Tails’ jinchuriki, Madara rivaled even Hagoromo Otsutsuki in strength, showing unparalleled might by effortlessly overpowering the Five Kage.
Besides that, Madara’s command over a wide array of powerful jutsu, coupled with his godlike strength as the Ten-Tails’ jinchuriki, pushes his position as one of the strongest shinobi in history. Although some may argue his status as an Akatsuki member, he was technically considered part of the group given that he was pulling the strings in the background, laying out the groundwork for Obito to hatch his plans.
Each member of the Akatsuki brought unique powers and strengths, adding to the group’s formidable reputation. Their remarkable impact on the Naruto series cements their place among the most iconic and powerful characters in the shinobi world.
