For a considerable time, *Jujutsu Kaisen* has garnered an immense fanbase, largely due to its exceptional roster of characters and adrenaline-pumping confrontations. Among these intriguing figures is Atsuya Kusakabe, a Grade 1 sorcerer, who, unfortunately, often remains overshadowed by key players like Satoru Gojo and Kento Nanami.
Though Kusakabe is recognized as the premier swordsman within the *Jujutsu Kaisen* universe and possesses a multitude of skills, there has been speculation among the fandom about his fate. This doubt arose following chapter 254, where Kusakabe appeared severely injured after his showdown with Sukuna, the King of Curses.
Nevertheless, the series creator, Gege Akutami, clarified that Kusakabe survived the encounter, amending his portrayal in chapter 254 to make his recovery seem more plausible by depicting his injuries as less severe.
Disclaimer: This article includes spoilers.
Gege Akutami Enhances Kusakabe’s Character Flaw Post-Sukuna Battle in *Jujutsu Kaisen* Chapter 254
In chapter 254 of *Jujutsu Kaisen*, Kusakabe engages in a fierce confrontation with Sukuna, one of the most menacing characters in the series. As a Grade 1 sorcerer, Kusakabe may lack a cursed technique, yet he wields incredible skills to compensate.
The battle commences with Kusakabe activating his Simple Domain, negating the guaranteed-hit effect from Sukuna’s domain. He simultaneously utilizes the Evening Moon Sword Drawing technique, which amplifies his cursed energy output, allowing him to counter Sukuna’s lethal attacks.
Throughout their duel, Kusakabe’s strategic acumen stands out as he leverages his katana and cursed energy to redirect Sukuna’s ranged strikes. His Simple Domain manages to marginally weaken Sukuna’s cursed techniques, providing him with a slight opportunity to prevail. Nevertheless, the tide of battle soon turns against Kusakabe.
Sukuna mocks and overwhelms him, compelling Kusakabe to evade a barrage of nearly unavoidable attacks. In a tense moment, he narrowly deflects a slash directed at his face, realizing Sukuna is executing his cursed technique with no visible effort.
Despite his staunch resistance, the fight’s climax reveals Kusakabe’s limitations. His katana shatters, and even after attempting to distract Sukuna with his coat and taking the fight to close quarters, he ultimately succumbs. Sukuna’s finishing strike leaves Kusakabe critically injured, leading many fans to speculate his demise.
However, this revision made Kusakabe’s survival more believable, ensuring that he retains his reputation as a powerful Grade 1 sorcerer.
Thanks to the efforts of his allies, Ui Ui and Shoko Ieiri, Kusakabe receives medical attention, underscoring his resilience and strategic brilliance in overcoming such a perilous encounter with Sukuna.
Kusakabe’s Significance Among Grade 1 Sorcerers in *Jujutsu Kaisen*
Kusakabe’s clash with Sukuna emphasizes his distinct role among Grade 1 sorcerers. While others may boast overwhelming offensive abilities, Kusakabe thrives in defensive tactics, strategic planning, and adaptability.
Notable sorcerers like Mei Mei and Nanami have acknowledged that although they might surpass him in sheer power, Kusakabe’s versatility in combat sets him apart. Nanami specifically noted that Kusakabe is more likely to evade defeat than to secure an outright victory, highlighting his survival instincts and tactical prowess.
Kusakabe’s proficiency in using Simple Domain further enhances his stature, as this barrier technique is relatively rare among elite sorcerers. Unlike novices like Kasumi Miwa, who require a binding vow to utilize it, Kusakabe can wield it at will, amplifying his combat effectiveness and range. This skill renders him a substantial threat, particularly against opponents reliant on domains like Sukuna.
The effectiveness of Kusakabe’s New Shadow Style—an advanced sword technique aimed at drawing foes into close combat—has also drawn admiration from Mei Mei. He expanded his Simple Domain to engage Sukuna, launching a series of rapid strikes while utilizing his domain to diminish Sukuna’s slashes. Akutami’s decision to revise Kusakabe’s portrayal emphasizes his importance in the *Jujutsu Kaisen* universe.
Concluding Remarks
Gege Akutami’s enhancements to Kusakabe’s depiction rectify a significant flaw in his character development, upholding the essence of a sorcerer renowned for his resourcefulness and combat expertise. By rendering Kusakabe’s injuries more manageable and solidifying the believability of his survival, Akutami successfully reinstates his credibility as a formidable Grade 1 sorcerer.
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