Jujutsu Kaisen’s Heian Era Controversy: Why Fans Believe Gege Made a Critical Error

The Jujutsu Kaisen series has now reached the conclusion of the Shinjuku Showdown arc, marking the end of Ryomen Sukuna’s reign of terror. Fans are reflecting on the narrative, pointing out unresolved plotlines and questions posed by the creator, Gege Akutami.

A notable point of discontent among fans is the absence of a detailed flashback to the Heian Era, often referred to as the Golden Age of Jujutsu sorcery. After witnessing Sukuna’s widespread destruction and numerous fatalities throughout the series, fans were anticipating a flashback that would showcase the King of Curses in his prime, as he unleashed chaos within the historical Jujutsu society.

Regrettably, this long-awaited desire may remain unfulfilled, especially with Sukuna presumed dead and the manga reportedly concluding in just three more chapters.

Gege Akutami’s decision to omit Heian Era flashbacks leaves fans disappointed

As the world awaits Jujutsu Kaisen chapter 269, fans find it difficult to accept that their cherished manga is approaching its final chapter this month.

With chapter 268 ending the Shinjuku Showdown arc alongside Sukuna’s storyline, a considerable number of fans took to social media to express their dissatisfaction with Gege Akutami’s choice to conclude this pivotal battle hurriedly.

Upon learning that the Jujutsu Kaisen manga would finish within five chapters while the final confrontation was intensifying, the fanbase erupted in distress, highlighting that there are numerous plotlines yet to resolve.

Sukuna as seen in the series (image via Shueisha)

The announcement of the manga concluding on September 30, 2024, eliminated the chances for many anticipated developments, such as the initiation of the merger, Kenjaku’s return, or the completion of Megumi’s Domain. However, a pervasive complaint from fans regarding the resolution of the Shinjuku Showdown arc was the lack of a backstory for Sukuna or a proper depiction of the Heian Era.

Sukuna’s history stands as one of the greatest mysteries within Jujutsu Kaisen. It has never been thoroughly explored throughout the series, aside from a few minor references. This was an aspect fans eagerly wanted to see, especially since it is a common trope in shonen manga to delve into the main antagonist’s backstory.

Nonetheless, it appears that Jujutsu Kaisen may stand apart from this customary exploration of a villain’s origin, which typically grants fans insights into their motives and actions.

Consequently, many fans were eager to learn about Sukuna’s beginnings and what transformed him into the Undisputed King of Curses. They were particularly excited about witnessing Sukuna’s rampage through the past Jujutsu society and the destruction he left in his wake.

However, with Sukuna now likely deceased after being forcibly removed from Megumi Fushiguro’s body, it seems improbable that Akutami will introduce any Heian Era flashbacks in the remaining chapters. This exclusion from the narrative is particularly disheartening for fans who have anticipated it since the series commenced.

Conversely, some fans argue that it may be beneficial for Jujutsu Kaisen not to delve into Sukuna’s backstory at all. They believe that the lack of a Heian Era flashback enhances his character’s enigma, which they hope the creator will preserve until the series concludes. As such, opinions within the Jujutsu Kaisen fanbase remain divided regarding the removal of Sukuna’s background story.

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