One possible reason could be their exceptional skills. Naruto might have shown great progress in his Rasengan training earlier than in the original story. And Sasuke could have mastered some advanced Uchiha techniques faster. Their teachers, like Iruka or Kakashi, might have recognized their potential and decided to let them graduate early.
A really interesting fanfiction is 'The Forgotten Beginning'. It delves into a scenario where Naruto and Sasuke are friends long before the academy. They grow up side by side, and this early friendship shapes their characters in unique ways. For example, Sasuke becomes more open and Naruto becomes more focused because of their influence on each other. It's a different take on the Naruto - Sasuke relationship that gives a fresh perspective on the whole story.
Maybe it has the ability to absorb chakra. So when Naruto is in a fight against an opponent with a large amount of chakra, he can use the sword to drain some of that chakra, weakening the enemy while strengthening himself. The sword could then store that chakra for later use, like to boost Naruto's own attacks.
It could be a sword that can cut through any substance, like the Susanoo easily. Just imagine Naruto swinging it and slicing through powerful jutsu defenses as if they were paper.
One of the main early influences on the birth of Naruto fanfiction was the lack of closure or the unanswered questions in the original Naruto story. Fans were eager to fill in the gaps. For example, the relationship between Naruto and Hinata before they got together was a topic many fanfiction writers explored. Additionally, the unique and detailed world - building in Naruto, like the different ninja villages and their cultures, provided a fertile ground for fanfiction. Fans could create stories set in these villages, exploring the lives of characters who might not have had much screen time in the original. And the growing trend of fanfiction in general, especially in other popular anime and manga series, also influenced Naruto fans to start creating their own fictional works.
In a fanfiction where Naruto befriends Sasuke early, the Akatsuki's plans might be disrupted. Since Sasuke would be less likely to go rogue in search of power, the Akatsuki would have a harder time recruiting him. Also, the relationship between Naruto and Sasuke could inspire other characters. For example, Sakura might see a different side of Sasuke and Naruto's bond could make her more determined to be a better ninja herself. The whole ninja world dynamic would be different as their friendship would have a ripple effect on many events and characters.
Well, in some fanfictions, Naruto might obtain the overpowered sword through a mysterious inheritance. Maybe it was left by a powerful ninja from the past and Naruto discovers it in a hidden cave or something.
One common theme is rapid power growth. For example, in many fanfics, Naruto might gain a special ability or power - up that allows him to quickly surpass his peers and even some of the strongest characters in the original series. This often leads to a situation where he can take on much more difficult challenges with ease.
One common element is Naruto having new and extremely powerful jutsu. For example, he might have a super - strong fire - based jutsu that can destroy entire villages in one go. Another element could be that he has enhanced physical abilities like super speed and strength that make him almost invincible in combat. Also, he may have a special connection to some sort of ancient or powerful entity that gives him an edge over everyone else.
A common theme is rapid power growth. Since the focus is on Naruto being overpowered, he often gains strength much faster than in the original series. For example, he might quickly master difficult jutsu or obtain rare powers.