Introduction
Jujutsu Kaisen (呪術廻戦), created by Gege Akutami, is a dark fantasy manga series serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump since March 2018. With its compelling characters, intricate power system, and relentless action, it has quickly risen to become one of the most popular shonen series of the decade. The anime adaptation by MAPPA, which premiered in October 2020, further cemented its status as a modern classic.
This article provides an in-depth analysis of Jujutsu Kaisen, covering its story, themes, characters, power system, and impact on the anime/manga industry.
Plot Summary
Premise
In Jujutsu Kaisen, curses—malignant entities born from negative human emotions—wreak havoc on the world. Jujutsu sorcerers are trained to exorcise these curses using cursed energy. The story follows Yuji Itadori, an unnaturally strong high school student who becomes the host of Sukuna, the "King of Curses," after swallowing one of his cursed fingers to save his friends.
Major Arcs
Cursed Womb Arc – Yuji is introduced to the world of jujutsu sorcery after consuming Sukuna’s finger. He joins Tokyo Jujutsu High under the mentorship of Satoru Gojo.
Vs. Mahito Arc – Yuji and his classmates face off against Mahito, a sadistic curse who can manipulate souls. This arc establishes the series’ darker tone.
Kyoto Goodwill Event Arc – A competition between Tokyo and Kyoto jujutsu schools, revealing political tensions within the sorcery world.
Shibuya Incident Arc – A large-scale attack by curses and rogue sorcerers in Shibuya, leading to major consequences for the protagonists.
Culling Game Arc – A deadly battle royale orchestrated by the ancient sorcerer Kenjaku, forcing Yuji and allies into a high-stakes survival game.
Themes and Analysis
1. The Nature of Curses
The series explores how negative emotions manifest as curses, serving as a metaphor for real-world trauma, hatred, and regret. Unlike traditional shonen villains, curses like Mahito are embodiments of human suffering, making them philosophically complex antagonists.
2. Death and Existentialism
Jujutsu Kaisen does not shy away from death—characters perish brutally, reinforcing the idea that sorcery is a merciless profession. Yuji struggles with the morality of killing curses (which were once human) and his own role as Sukuna’s vessel.
3. Power and Responsibility
Satoru Gojo, the strongest sorcerer, represents the burden of absolute power. His philosophy of nurturing the next generation contrasts with the conservative jujutsu society that fears change.
4. Free Will vs. Fate
Many characters grapple with predetermined destinies:
Megumi Fushiguro questions whether he is fated to follow his clan’s dark legacy.
Yuji Itadori battles Sukuna’s influence over his body.
Geto Suguru (and later Kenjaku) believes in reshaping humanity through forced evolution.
Character Analysis
1. Yuji Itadori
A subversion of the typical shonen protagonist, Yuji is cheerful but deeply burdened by his role as Sukuna’s vessel. His growth revolves around accepting death—both his own and those he must kill.
2. Megumi Fushiguro
A strategic fighter with a strong moral code, Megumi’s development focuses on breaking free from his clan’s expectations and defining his own path.
3. Nobara Kugisaki
A rare well-written female shonen character, Nobara is fierce, independent, and unapologetically herself. Her battles often explore themes of self-worth and defiance.
4. Satoru Gojo
The fan-favorite overpowered mentor, Gojo balances humor with a tragic sense of isolation. His role as a revolutionary figure in the jujutsu world drives much of the conflict.
5. Antagonists: Sukuna & Mahito
Sukuna is chaos incarnate—a hedonistic, godlike being who views humans as insects.
Mahito represents the cruelty of human nature, deriving pleasure from psychological and physical torment.
Power System: Cursed Energy & Techniques
1. Cursed Energy Basics
Sorcerers and curses manipulate cursed energy, with techniques ranging from:
Innate Techniques (e.g., Gojo’s Limitless, Megumi’s Ten Shadows)
Domain Expansions (ultimate techniques that create a cursed reality)
2. Unique Abilities
Yuji’s Superhuman Strength – Enhanced by cursed energy.
Sukuna’s Cleave & Dismantle – Slashing attacks that ignore durability.
Mahito’s Idle Transfiguration – Soul manipulation.
The system rewards creativity, making battles unpredictable yet logical.
Anime Adaptation & Impact
1. MAPPA’s Stellar Animation
The anime elevates the manga with fluid fight choreography, dynamic camera work, and a haunting OST by Hiroaki Tsutsumi. The Shibuya Incident arc (Season 2) is particularly praised for its intensity.
2. Influence on Modern Shonen
Jujutsu Kaisen blends classic shonen tropes with dark storytelling akin to Hunter x Hunter and Chainsaw Man. Its success has influenced a wave of grittier, faster-paced battle manga.
3. Cultural Phenomenon
The series has spawned a massive fanbase, merchandise, and even a prequel movie (Jujutsu Kaisen 0), solidifying its place in anime history.
Conclusion
Jujutsu Kaisen is more than just a battle manga—it’s a meditation on death, power, and human nature. With its complex characters, brutal fights, and philosophical depth, it stands as one of the best shonen series of the 2020s. As the story approaches its climax, fans eagerly await how Yuji’s journey will conclude.
Whether you’re a shonen fan or a dark fantasy enthusiast, Jujutsu Kaisen is a must-read/watch.
Final Rating: 9.5/10
✅ Brilliant characters & villains
✅ Innovative power system
✅ Stunning animation (MAPPA)
✅ Mature storytelling
❌ Pacing can feel rushed post-Shibuya
Jujutsu Kaisen: A Deep Dive into the Culling Game & Sukuna’s Legacy
Introduction
Jujutsu Kaisen has consistently pushed the boundaries of shonen storytelling, and nowhere is this more evident than in the Culling Game arc—a high-stakes battle royale that redefines power dynamics in the jujutsu world. Additionally, Ryomen Sukuna, the King of Curses, remains one of the most fascinating antagonists in modern anime/manga.
This follow-up analysis explores:
The Culling Game Arc – Structure, key players, and its impact on the story.
Sukuna’s True Nature – His philosophy, powers, and role in the narrative.
How These Elements Elevate Jujutsu Kaisen Beyond Typical Shonen.
1. The Culling Game Arc: A Deadly Evolution of the Story
What Is the Culling Game?
A large-scale death game orchestrated by Kenjaku (using Geto’s body) to merge Tengen with humanity.
Rules:
Participants (sorcerers, reincarnated players, and civilians) must kill to earn points.
Points can be used to add new rules, leave the game, or transfer cursed techniques.
Locations: Multiple colonies across Japan, each with unique dynamics.
Key Battles & Developments
Yuji vs. Higuruma – A moral clash where Yuji confronts the idea of justice vs. survival.
Megumi’s Awakening – His potential as the Ten Shadows successor is tested.
Hakari’s Domain Expansion – A gamble-based power that makes him nearly invincible.
The Return of Yuta Okkotsu – His role as a special-grade wildcard shakes up the game.
Why This Arc Is a Masterpiece
✅ Expands the power system (new techniques, rule manipulation).
✅ Deepens character arcs (Yuji’s despair, Megumi’s resolve, Hakari’s chaos).
✅ Raises the stakes – Failure means Japan’s destruction.
2. Sukuna: The King of Curses & the Ultimate Antagonist
Sukuna’s Philosophy
A being beyond morality: He sees humans as insects and enjoys their suffering.
Hedonistic & selfish: He acts purely for amusement, making him unpredictable.
Respects strength alone: He spares those who intrigue him (e.g., Megumi, Jogo).
Sukuna’s True Power
Cleave & Dismantle: Slashes that adapt to the target’s toughness.
Fire Arrow: A devastating technique only used against worthy opponents.
Domain Expansion: Malevolent Shrine – A 200-meter instant-death zone with no barrier.
Sukuna’s Endgame
His full resurrection marks a turning point in the story.
His interest in Megumi suggests a deeper plan involving the Ten Shadows technique.
Potential final boss status—can even Gojo truly defeat him?
3. How Jujutsu Kaisen Redefines Shonen Tropes
1. No Plot Armor
Major characters die suddenly (Nanami, Nobara, Gojo’s sealing).
Even Yuji isn’t safe—his survival is constantly in question.
2. Villains Who Feel Real
Mahito embodies human cruelty.
Kenjaku is a master manipulator with centuries-long schemes.
Sukuna is pure, unrestrained evil—no tragic backstory needed.
3. A Power System That Rewards Creativity
Unlike Naruto (chakra) or Bleach (reiatsu), cursed energy allows for endless techniques.
Domains, binding vows, and reverse cursed energy keep battles fresh.
Final Thoughts: Is Jujutsu Kaisen a Future Classic?
Absolutely. With its:
✔ Complex characters (no one is purely good or evil).
✔ Unrelenting tension (no filler, constant consequences).
✔ Philosophical depth (fate, free will, human nature).
It stands alongside Hunter x Hunter and Chainsaw Man as a dark shonen legend.