Board Thread:Naruto Discussions/@comment-31278419-20170331010234/@comment-31675701-20170405164245

I think that the main problem was the change of focus that came between classic and Shippuden. During Classic there was a larger focus on the ideals and goals behind each character. Naruto wants to be Hokage, Sasuke wants to avenge his clan, Lee wants to become a great ninja using only Taijutsu, Orochimaru wanted to become immortal and etc.

The Land of Waves arc was the turning point for Naruto as a character, it was when he was shown how far people would go for their goals. Kaiza's determination, Tazuna's hope, Gato's greed, Zabuza's ambition, Haku's devotion. I think canon failed to follow through and fell back into its comfort zone. Sure there was some character development but it seemed just too small for such a life-changing experience.