kagurabachi, jujutsu kaisen

credit: KAGURABACHI by Takeru Hokazono/SHUEISHA Inc.

SUMMARY

  • Kagurabachi's recent plot twist involving a shocking massacre has drawn comparisons to Jujutsu Kaisen's narrative style.
  • The series is positioning itself as a potential successor to Jujutsu Kaisen with its unpredictable storytelling.
  • While it's too early to declare Kagurabachi a definite successor to JJK, it shows promise as a rising contender.

Surprising twists are non-stop not only for Jujutsu Kaisen but also for Takeru Hokazono’s manga series Kagurabachi. It has made a bold standpoint in the world of Shonen manga by positioning itself as the successor to the highly popular series Jujutsu Kaisen. The series, which recently gained attention mostly through internet memes, has now encapsulated readers’ imagination with its unexpected plot twists.

Chihiro Rokuhira and Yoji UruhaChihiro Rokuhira and Yoji Uruha | Credit: Viz

With its latest development, it has drawn significant parallels to Gege Akutami’s narrative style in Jujutsu Kaisen. Most particularly in terms of shocking character deaths and subversion of reader expectations. An undergoing shift has taken place as Akutami’s magnum opus approaches its conclusion, fans are closely watching Hokazono’s series for signs that might fill the impending void in the Shonen genre.

A Surprise Move Raises Kagurabachi‘s Status in Shonen Ranks

Takeru Hokazono‘s Kagurabachi has been steadily gaining attraction in the manga world, and its latest chapter has left its fans hovering thoughts. In a move similar to Gege Akutami, he delivered a shocking massacre that has solidified the series’ position as a potential successor to the soon-to-conclude JJK.

Massacre of Kokugoku Steam Squad from chapter 48 of KagurabachiMassacre of Kokugoku Steam Squad | Credit: Viz

Chapter 48 of Kagurabachi saw the unexpected and brutal annihilation of the Kokugoku Steam Squad. This group of powerful fighters assumed by the readers that they would play a significant role in the future arcs. But because of this sudden twist, many were caught off-guard in the crossfire and drew immediate comparisons to Akutami’s penchant for surprising character deaths.

Hokazono levels up this killing of characters a bit more by not just taking one or two characters but an entire squad compete wiped out at the end of the chapter. This massacre portrays a dangerous world crafted by him, where even the strongest characters are not safe from sudden demise. It also delivered the kind of intense, emotional, and unpredictable storytelling that readers have come to expect from top-tier Shonen manga just like JJK.

The chapter provides a long-awaited encounter between protagonist Chihiro Rokuhira and Yoji Uruha, a character with ties to Chihiro’s father. And also put forward crucial information about the Enchanted Blades, all the while exploring the emotional weight of Chihiro’s past. The juxtaposition of this with the brutal massacre shows how Hokazono has constructed a narrative structure that is both action-packed and filled with emotion.

The Future of Kagurabachi – A New Shonen Powerhouse?

The series has drawn similarities between Hokazono’s storytelling style and that of Akutami with its latest chapter release. Noting their willingness to obstruct reader expectations and maintain a constant sense of tension. This kind of bold approach ranges from shock and sadness over the loss of fan-favorite characters to admiration for his daring plot decisions.

Kento Nanami's death in Jujutsu Kaisen chapter 120Kento Nanami’s death in Jujutsu Kaisen chapter 120 | Credit: Viz

It’s been seen that Hokazono is surely being influenced by Akutami’s merciless snatching away of characters. Even then it’s too early to state that the series is a substantial successor to JJK. But it has positioned itself as a strong contender in Shonen. His ability to create a story full of high-stakes battles and unexpected twists signaled that he is not afraid to take risks in the series.

Sooner or later everyone’s focus will be on Kagurabachi to see if it can maintain its momentum and fill the void left by its predecessor. In the manga verse, there are always ups and downs that give no guarantee for the success of the manga. But it surely has the potential to become Weekly Shonen Jump’s next big hit. The only thing left for fans is to wait and watch what the series becomes, whether dragging itself down or hovering up in the sky.

Kagurabachi and Jujutsu Kaisen manga is currently available to read on Viz.

Chihiro RokuhiraGege AkutamiHokazono TakeruJujutsu KaisenKagurabachi

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Written by Akihito Chakma

Articles Published: 153

Holding a Master's degree in English, Akihito is a dedicated Content Writer at FandomWire. He has a keen focus on the ongoing anime series, classic series and new releases. With his passion for anime and writing skills, Akihito keeps fans informed and entertained through his work.