The episode received mixed reviews from the fan community. Reviewers from Anime News Network noted that while the episode captures the tension of the original defection story, some power scaling—specifically Sasuke easily taking down Kakashi—felt inconsistent with established lore.
Watch a recap and review of the intense confrontation between Sasuke and Kakashi in this alternate reality: Naruto Shippuden Episode 444 Review - Sasuke vs Kakashi YouTube• Jan 14, 2016 Naruto Shippuden Episode 444 Review Naruto Shippuden Episode 444
Others appreciated the psychological exploration of Sasuke’s inferiority complex in this timeline, where he feels overshadowed not by tragedy, but by Naruto's consistent growth. The episode concluded with a new ending theme, which was well-received by viewers for its aesthetic. The episode received mixed reviews from the fan community