Well, one possible implication is that his relationships might develop differently. For example, his friendships with Sasuke and Sakura could have a different dynamic. Since he's younger, he might be more naive and rely more on others, changing the way they interact.
It can slow down the plot. Since he's younger, he might not be as ready to take on big missions or challenges, so the story has to build up more gradually to those events.
Naruto's age in the canon is based on the story arcs and the passage of time in the official Naruto universe. Fanfiction is a world of creativity where rules can be bent. Writers may choose to set Naruto at a younger age to explore different character dynamics or create new storylines. However, in the official, unmodified Naruto canon, he has a natural age progression that is older than what is often depicted in fanfiction.
Well, it could mean that in a particular context, the character Naruto in some non - canon fan - made stories is depicted as being younger, and the statement is emphasizing that in the original or more 'true - to - the - source' concept, Naruto is older. For example, some fanfictions might have time - travel or alternate universe scenarios where Naruto's age is manipulated in a way that makes him younger compared to how he is in the official, canon story.
Obviously Naruto himself is a very popular character in this type of fanfiction. Since he's older, readers are interested in seeing how he has changed and grown. Sakura could also be popular. Maybe as an older and more experienced kunoichi, she has developed new medical ninjutsu or combat skills. Another popular character might be Kakashi. He could be in a more advisory role to Naruto, and his wisdom and experience would still be valuable.
Naruto's abilities would develop quite differently. Firstly, his understanding of chakra nature would be very limited at a younger age. He might not even be aware of his own chakra nature for a while. His ability to learn new jutsu would be slower too. Instead of quickly learning new techniques like in the canon, he'd have to spend more time on each one. His ability to use the Nine - Tails' power would be more erratic. For example, it could manifest in ways he can't control, like sudden bursts of power during training. And his teamwork skills, which are important in the ninja world, would take longer to develop. He'd be more focused on proving himself individually rather than working well with others at first.
One interesting plot point could be Naruto's earlier struggle with loneliness. Since he'd be younger, he might be even more isolated in the village. For example, he might have a harder time making friends his age, which could lead to different character development. He could also face more intense bullying as a younger child, which would further fuel his determination to be recognized. Another aspect could be his relationship with Iruka sensei. If Naruto is younger, Iruka might take on an even more parental role, guiding Naruto through his early ninja training in a more hands - on way.
One interesting plotline could be Naruto having to deal with more complex political situations in the ninja world due to his age. Maybe he has to navigate treaties and alliances in a more hands - on way. Another could be his relationships with his friends evolving differently. For example, his bond with Sasuke might be more of an equal partnership in handling threats to the village, rather than the typical rivalry - turned - friendship we see in the canon.
In a fanfiction, we could explore a story where Kushina survives the Nine - Tails attack. She then gets to be a part of Naruto's growth, teaching him about his Uzumaki heritage and how to control the Nine - Tails in a more personal way compared to what Jiraiya taught him.
Definitely not. In the Naruto series, we see Naruto's development as a ninja, his relationships with Sasuke, Sakura, Kakashi and others are based on mutual respect, friendship and the pursuit of common goals. This fanfiction idea is not only non - canon but also goes against the positive and family - friendly nature of the Naruto franchise.