Why Orochimaru's Character Arc In Naruto Makes No Sense

Orochimaru does taste defeat a few times. During the "Itachi Pursuit Arc" in the Shippuden manga, he and Sasuke have what appears to be a final showdown that ends with Sasuke absorbing the villain and keeping him suppressed within with his chakra. Then, several manga chapters later, during Sasuke's climactic battle against his brother Itachi in the "Fated Battle Between Brothers Arc," Orochimaru slips out as Sasuke is low in chakra from his fight. However, Itachi seals Orochimaru away thanks to the Totsuka Sword and his Susanno ability.

It finally looked like the end for Orochimaru. Then things decided to get really weird during the Fourth Great Ninja War. Sasuke ends up resurrecting Orochimaru in manga Chapter #593, and he, in turn, resurrects the four deceased Hokage of Konoha to give the young Uchiha information he seeks. Sasuke then makes the decision to protect Konoha. And as a result, Orochimaru has a change in heart and decides to help his former pupil in his mission. Despite his claims of being uninterested in the war, Orochimaru actually stays true to his word and aids in helping to defeat Madara.