10 Anime Characters Whose Powers Let Them Down in Critical Situations

Anime enthusiasts are well aware that shonen anime characters frequently showcase extraordinary abilities that often seem overpowered, granting them an air of invincibility. However, these powers don’t always succeed, with key moments in battles revealing the limitations of these characters when they need them the most.

We have witnessed numerous instances in anime where characters find themselves on the losing end of a fight after their abilities either diminish or backfire. Below, we present 10 anime characters whose powers failed them at the most critical junctures.

Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers from various manga series.

Son Goku, Delta, and 8 Other Anime Characters Whose Abilities Failed Them at Crucial Moments

1) Father in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Father in Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood (Image via BONES)

In the climactic battle between Edward Elric and Father, the homunculus intended to regain his Ultimate Shield ability by absorbing Greed once more. However, this strategy backfired as Greed seized the moment to overpower Father, transforming his body into weak graphite. Consequently, Edward Elric easily triumphed over the formidable homunculus.

2) Son Goku in Dragon Ball Super

Son Goku in Dragon Ball Super (Image via Toei Animation)

At the crucial end of the Tournament of Power, Goku was in control of his fight against Jiren with his Mastered Ultra Instinct ability. However, this powerful technique faltered at a critical moment, putting Goku at a disadvantage. Fortunately, a collaboration with Frieza and Android 17 saved Universe 7 from defeat.

3) Boruto Uzumaki in Boruto: Naruto Next Generations

Borushiki in Boruto (Image via Studio Pierrot)

After gaining the karma ability from Kawaki, Boruto initially found it to be a powerful asset. However, this power soon acted as a curse when Momoshiki took control of Boruto’s body, leading to disastrous results for his allies. In a pivotal moment, Borushiki struck Sasuke Uchiha’s Rinnegan, significantly weakening him.

4) Delta in Boruto: Naruto Next Generations

Delta in Boruto (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Delta, a formidable cyborg, possessed the ability to absorb ninjutsu to enhance her own attacks. During her confrontation with Naruto, it appeared she was unbeatable until Naruto deduced that Delta had a limit on her chakra absorption. He overwhelmed her with a Rasengan, causing her absorption ability to malfunction.

5) Zamasu in Dragon Ball Super

Zamasu in Dragon Ball Super (Image via Toei Animation)

From the Goku Black Arc, we recall the two Zamasus—one immortal and one in Goku’s body. Their fusion, meant to enhance their already overwhelming powers, ironically led to their downfall as the resulting fusion was mortal. This mistake allowed Goku, Vegeta, and Trunks to triumph over them.

6) Juushirou Ukitake in Bleach

Juushirou Ukitake in Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War (Image via Studio Pierrot)

During the Quincy invasion, Juushirou Ukitake attempted to replace the Soul King through a ritual that required him to become the Soul King’s right arm. Unfortunately, this tactic failed when Yhwach absorbed the Soul King’s arm, leading to Ukitake’s death and leaving the Shinigami in peril.

7) Super Buu in Dragon Ball Z

Super Buu in Dragon Ball Z (Image via Toei Animation)

Before his battle with Mystic Gohan, Super Buu absorbed both Piccolo and Super Saiyan 3 Gotenks, significantly powering up. However, Gotenks’ fusion ended after 30 minutes, greatly diminishing Buu’s strength, enabling Goku and Gohan to overpower him without needing to fuse again.

8) Satoru Gojo in Jujutsu Kaisen

Satoru Gojo in Jujutsu Kaisen (Image via MAPPA)

Satoru Gojo’s Infinity technique was renowned for making him nearly invulnerable. However, during his battle with Ryomen Sukuna, a formidable attack slashed through Infinity itself, leading to Gojo’s defeat and demonstrating that even his extraordinary power had limits.

9) Gremmy Thoumeaux in Bleach

Gremmy in Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War (Image via Studio Pierrot) — Gremmy Thoumeaux in Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Serving as a Sternritter with the power of manifestation, Gremmy Thoumeaux could create anything he envisioned. In a moment of desperation during his fight with Kenpachi Zaraki, he imagined himself to possess absolute power but inadvertently conjured his own demise instead.

10) Yuta Okkotsu in Jujutsu Kaisen

Yuta Okkotsu in Jujutsu Kaisen (Image via MAPPA)

Prior to his battle with Ryomen Sukuna, Yuta Okkotsu collaborated with Satoru Gojo to gain Kenjaku’s Cursed Technique. During their confrontation, Yuta utilized Gojo’s Unlimited Void, but as Kenjaku’s ability diminished, Yuta reached his limit, resulting in a significant setback in the fight.

These are the 10 anime characters whose abilities let them down in pivotal moments. If you think we’ve overlooked any notable characters, feel free to share your thoughts below.