Sage Mode is a senjutsu achieved by mixing natural energy with the user's physical and spiritual chakra, resulting in the formation of senjutsu chakra. The toads of Mount Myōboku and the snakes of Ryūchi Cave teach this art. Mastering it requires exceptionally large chakra reserves and a sufficiently sturdy body capable of withstanding the increased power. While gathering natural energy, one must remain completely still, otherwise the energy will not be accepted; the slightest excess threatens irreversible transformation into stone, while a deficiency will not allow the mode to activate. Toads use a special oil for passive absorption of energy and a staff that knocks it out in case of danger; the snake sage injects natural energy through a bite, and the body either accepts the power or is devoured.
Activated Sage Mode greatly enhances physical strength, speed, endurance, reflexes, perception, and durability, and also increases the power of ninjutsu, genjutsu, and taijutsu. The user gains the ability to sense chakra and attacks without the aid of sight, and the natural energy around them can become an extension of the body (for toads) or breathe life into inorganic objects (for snakes). If an opponent attempts to absorb chakra, the excess natural energy can turn them to stone. The appearance changes: dark pigmentation appears around the eyes, and the irises acquire a characteristic hue depending on the school. Jiraiya, who failed to perfectly balance the energies, acquired toad-like features — an enlarged nose, warts, sharp teeth, and webbed limbs, which increased maneuverability. Naruto Uzumaki gains yellow irises with horizontal pupils and an orange outline around the eyes; Hashirama Senju — yellow irises and black pigmentation reaching to the ears, with a round mark on the forehead; Minato Namikaze — yellow irises, toad pupils, and orange pigmentation.
The main drawback is the inability to replenish senjutsu chakra while moving, which limits the duration of effect. This drawback is circumvented by merging with toads on the shoulders that gather chakra, shadow clones accumulating energy on the side, or by implanting Jūgo's DNA for passive absorption, as Kabuto Yakushi did. Constant training reduces absorption time, and jinchūriki in harmony with their beast can enter the mode within seconds.
