Shadow Imitation Technique

The Shadow Imitation Technique is a signature technique of the Nara Clan.

Usage
The user extends their shadow on any surface (even water) to merge with a target's shadow, thereby forcing them to imitate the user's movements. A tactic used to make this technique more lethal is to carry their shuriken holster on the side that shinobi normally don't wear it, this way when the user reaches to throw a shuriken at them, the target will be reaching for nothing. If the target is out of range, the user can produce a better light source to increase their shadow's size or rely on pre-existing shadows for their shadow to freely travel through. It's also possible to split one's shadow, either to trap more opponents at once, or to create a distraction.

Drawbacks
The major downside of the Shadow Imitation is that it is tiring to use repeatedly; Hidan notes that the ability is subject to some form of diminishing return and decreases in potency after repeated use (Shikamaru Nara can only maintain it for 5 minutes per use). If the user is low on chakra, the performance rate of the technique also deteriorates. Insufficient lighting will make the technique less effective. A particularly strong opponent can also resist the shadow's forced imitation. The technique also forces the user to move the same as the victim so if the victim was hit with enough blunt force to move them, the user has the movements forced on them.

Trivia

 * It was originally created somewhere in Konoha's region as a way to capture deer for their antlers. From there, it was treated as a secret technique, and transmitted to the following generations.
 * Shikaku calls this technique by its old name: the (exactly . Shikamaru also uses this name in Naruto Shippūden the Movie: Bonds. The old version simply paralysed the target. The imitation aspect was apparently added sometime between Orochimaru's defection from Konoha and his later invasion of the village.
 * It does not appear to affect the opponent's face, allowing them freedom of speech, thus this technique can be used for interrogation purposes.
 * In the English dub anime, Sakon states that he had mastered this technique.
 * In the Naruto: Clash of Ninja series, Kakashi can perform this technique by copying it with his Sharingan.
 * In Naruto: Path of the Ninja 2, using this technique on multiple opponents at once gives it the name Eight Way Shadow Imitation Technique.
 * The user of the technique has been shown to move the same way as the target if they are moved.
 * In The Last: Naruto the Movie, Shikamaru was able to use this technique to manipulate the movements of several puppets, despite remaining stationary.
 * Konohamaru Sarutobi was able to use this technique through his Shinobi Gauntlet, after Shikamaru sealed the technique into the device.
 * Inojin Yamanaka has tricked Metal Lee into believing that his ink snakes was this technique.