Another way is through training. Naruto might be trained by someone who knew Minato well, like Jiraiya. They could teach Naruto the same strategies and ways of thinking that Minato used. Also, Naruto could study Minato's past battles and learn from his techniques and decision - making processes. This would gradually make him as smart as Minato in terms of battle intelligence and leadership skills.
Well, it depends on the specific fanfic. Some fanfics might really emphasize Naruto's growth to be on par with Minato in terms of smarts. They could show Naruto learning from Minato's memories or having some sort of spiritual connection that transfers knowledge. However, other fanfics might focus more on other aspects of Naruto's character and not necessarily make him as smart as Minato.
Well, Naruto has some similarities to Minato. Physically, they both have blond hair. In terms of abilities, Naruto's speed and some of his jutsu - like the Rasengan which was passed down from Minato - show a connection. Also, their leadership qualities are alike. Naruto became the Hokage, just like Minato was, and they both had to lead their village in difficult times.
One of the main similarities is their self - sacrifice. Minato sacrificed himself to save the village and his son. Naruto has also shown that he is willing to put himself in harm's way for the greater good. He's always the first to jump into a dangerous situation if it means protecting those he loves. Another aspect is their leadership qualities. Minato was a great leader as Hokage, and Naruto has developed into a great leader as well, inspiring those around him.
Well, the story could develop in many ways. Maybe Naruto could be an orphan found by someone else in the village, like an old ninja who decides to train him in secret. This would change Naruto's backstory completely. He might not have the same kind of pressure or expectations that come with being the son of a famous Hokage. His character could grow in a different direction, perhaps being more independent from the start as he has to create his own identity without the shadow of his 'father' Minato.
The fanfic could portray Naruto as having greater physical strength and endurance. Maybe he can take more hits and keep fighting, while Minato might get tired more easily. Also, Naruto's strategic thinking in combat could be shown as superior, allowing him to outwit Minato in battles.
His relationship with Sasuke might improve more quickly. Naruto, being smart like Minato, could better understand Sasuke's motives and pain. He could come up with more effective ways to reach out to Sasuke and convince him to return to the village. For example, instead of just relying on brute force or pure emotion, he could use intelligent arguments about their shared past and future goals.
Well, it could have Minato training Naruto from a young age. Naruto might grow up more confident and with better control over his chakra earlier. He'd probably be less of an outcast in the village too.
Minato would be in awe of the new ninja world. He'd notice the changes in the village's infrastructure and the way ninjas are trained. He might be a bit taken aback by the more complex political situations. However, being the quick - thinking ninja he is, he would start to analyze everything. He'd work with Naruto to understand the new power dynamics and use his old - school wisdom along with Naruto's modern knowledge to make the village even stronger.
Minato could be developed further by exploring his time as the Fourth Hokage more deeply. For example, show his political decisions and how they were influenced by the presence of the Kyuubi. Also, his relationship with other villages could be explored, especially in relation to the Kyuubi's power. Maybe he had to make some tough calls to protect the village from those who might want to use the Kyuubi for evil.
One way to explore their relationship is to have Minato's friends, like Jiraiya, tell baby Naruto stories about his father. As Naruto listens, he starts to form an image of Minato in his mind. This could lead to Naruto trying to imitate Minato in different ways. Also, the fanfic could show how Minato's sacrifice for the village is slowly understood by baby Naruto as he grows up, deepening the emotional connection between them.