Well, Naruto himself is a popular choice for pairing. Their contrasting natures make for an interesting dynamic. Naruto's positive attitude and determination can either influence the 'Orochimaru - like' character for the better or clash in a big way. Sasuke is also a likely candidate. Given Sasuke's own journey into the darker aspects of power - seeking, he can have a more nuanced relationship with the character similar to Orochimaru. Another one could be Kakashi. Kakashi, with his experience and wisdom, can act as a mentor or a moral compass to the 'Orochimaru - like' character, creating a relationship full of tension and growth potential.
Definitely Naruto. Their interactions can be filled with drama and growth opportunities. The 'Orochimaru - like' character might initially see Naruto as naive, but as the story progresses, Naruto could start to change their perspective. Sakura could also be a good pairing. She is strong - willed and not afraid to stand up to those with devious intentions. Her relationship with the 'Orochimaru - like' character could involve her trying to reform them or at least keep them in check. And then there's Jiraiya. Jiraiya, being Orochimaru's former teammate, can have a very complex relationship with the 'just like Orochimaru' character. He can offer insights into Orochimaru's past and help the character make different choices.
Often, the theme of transformation is prevalent. Just like Orochimaru was known for his various experiments on himself to gain new powers and forms, a character 'just like him' in fanfiction might also be on a journey of self - transformation. This could be both physical and mental. There may also be themes related to secrecy and hidden motives, as Orochimaru was always full of secrets. And in relation to Naruto, the theme of friendship or the lack of it can be explored. Can Naruto befriend someone with Orochimaru - like tendencies? Or will their differences be too great?
Kabuto could also be an interesting pairing. Since Kabuto was Orochimaru's loyal follower, fanfiction could delve into their dynamic. Maybe there could be a story where Kabuto has to make a choice between his loyalty to Orochimaru and his own sense of right and wrong, especially as Orochimaru's actions become more extreme.
One possible reason could be in the realm of artistic interpretation in the fanfiction. The author might want to explore a different aesthetic or a unique plot where Naruto has some physical or behavioral traits similar to Orochimaru for shock value or to create a new kind of character dynamic.
One common plotline is the corruption arc. Naruto starts off on his normal path but then gradually gets influenced by Orochimaru - like ideas of power. For instance, he might be tempted by the idea of using forbidden jutsu to gain an edge in battles, similar to how Orochimaru was always seeking new and powerful techniques through unethical means.
Yes, in some fanfictions Naruto can be depicted as a prodigy similar to Orochimaru. Fanfic writers often take creative liberties to show Naruto with Orochimaru - like intelligence and skills in areas like jutsu creation or rapid learning of advanced techniques. This can make for very interesting and unique storylines.
In fanfiction, Naruto might be shown as having a similar thirst for knowledge as Orochimaru. He could be constantly seeking out new jutsus and ways to improve his skills, just like Orochimaru was always interested in expanding his power through knowledge.
Kabuto is also common. He was Orochimaru's right - hand man. In fanfiction, he could be used to either further Orochimaru's plans against Naruto or he could have a change of heart and help Naruto against Orochimaru. His medical skills and knowledge of Orochimaru's secrets make him an interesting addition to the story.
His friends would be very confused and probably worried. They know Orochimaru as a dangerous and untrustworthy person. So, if Naruto starts acting like him, they might think something is seriously wrong with Naruto. For example, Sasuke, who has his own history with Orochimaru, would be extremely suspicious and might even turn against Naruto for a while.
Well, it often delves deeper into Orochimaru's character. In the original Naruto, he's a bit of an enigma. Fanfiction can give more backstory and motives. For instance, his obsession with immortality could be explored more fully.
Yes, there are quite a few. You can start by looking on fanfiction.net. There are stories that explore Orochimaru's past in more detail, his motives, and his relationships with other characters in ways that the original Naruto series might not have fully covered.