The characters in Bleach are recognized for their intricate designs and dynamic personalities, making them some of the most captivating figures in anime and manga. Among the many intriguing elements in the series, the quest for Bankai, which represents the pinnacle of a Shinigami’s Zanpakuto powers, stands out as a key aspiration for strength and advancement.
Unfortunately, not every character gets the chance to unlock this powerful ability within the arcs of the main story, leaving fans to speculate about the immense potential within some of their favorite figures.
This article explores the top 10 Bleach characters who never had their defining Bankai moment, yet truly deserved one. From Hiyori Sarugaki’s relentless combat techniques to Kira Izuru’s tactical brilliance, these individuals had the capability to change the outcome of various story arcs and confrontations.
Disclaimer: The views presented in this article reflect those of the author.
10 Bleach Characters Who Deserve Their Bankai
10) Quay Shiba
Kaien Shiba was a cherished former lieutenant of the 13th Division, admired for his courage and dedication. Loved for his warm-hearted nature, he wielded the Shikai Nejibana, which allowed him to manipulate water in powerful, flowing attacks. Sadly, Kaien’s journey came to an abrupt end when he sacrificed his life to uphold his honor.
If he had achieved his Bankai, Kaien could have drastically amplified his water control capabilities, enabling him to summon massive tidal waves or reshape the battlefield itself. His compassionate spirit would undoubtedly have placed him among the ranks of formidable Bleach warriors.
9) Count Izuru
Kira Izuru, the introspective lieutenant of the 3rd Division, is known for his quiet demeanor. His Shikai, Wabisuke, possesses the unique ability to double the weight of targets upon contact. While Kira’s Shikai holds strategic advantages, the absence of a Bankai leaves his fullest potential unactualized.
A potential Bankai could elevate Kira’s power to a new dimension, perhaps granting him the ability to manipulate gravity directly, creating zones where opponents are rendered immobile due to overwhelming mass. This transformation would position Kira as a critical player in battles.
8) Yumichika Ayasegawa
Yumichika Ayasegawa, full of life and energy, serves in the 11th Division and wields the Shikai Ruri’iro Kujaku, which drains an opponent’s spiritual energy. He underplays his powers due to a belief that it compromises his combat ideology.
A Bankai could empower Yumichika to absorb the abilities of multiple foes simultaneously or drain energy en masse, transforming him into a highly adaptable fighter with formidable offensive and defensive capabilities.
7) Type of Cinnamon
Momo Hinamori, the steadfast and devoted lieutenant of the 5th Division, wields the Shikai Tobiume, which enables her to discharge explosive energy attacks. Despite her gentle exterior, Momo proves to be a tenacious warrior. Her growth and determination could shine even brighter with a Bankai.
Should Momo unlock a Bankai, it could significantly enhance her explosive capabilities, giving her mastery over energy fields or the ability to unleash larger-scale energy detonations. It would also showcase her elemental affinities in visually spectacular ways.
6) Yachiru Update
Yachiru Kusajishi, the enigmatic and spirited lieutenant of the 11th Division, is well-versed in combat and possesses formidable spiritual pressure. Her Shikai, Sanpo Kenjū, uniquely showcases two summoned entities to assist her in battle.
A concentrated assault from Sanpo Kenjū can create deep fissures in the ground, and considering Yachiru’s bond with Kenpachi Zaraki, her Bankai would likely unleash powerful and chaotic forces, resulting in a more potent embodiment of her abilities.
5) Rangiku Matsumoto
Rangiku Matsumoto, the charismatic lieutenant of the 10th Division, utilizes the Shikai Haineko, which transforms her Zanpakuto into swirling ashes. This gives her a unique tactical edge in battles, allowing her to adapt her approach based on the situation.
However, without a Bankai, Rangiku’s full capacity remains unrealized. A Bankai could enhance Haineko’s abilities, allowing her to shape the ashes into various constructs such as barriers or weaponry, thereby refining her combat versatility and effectiveness.
4) Big Bike
Mashiro Kuna, a Visored who formerly served as the lieutenant of the 9th Division, is recognized for her impressive agility and fighting capabilities. Her Hollow mask greatly enhances her physical prowess, establishing her among the most formidable characters in Bleach. Bankai could introduce new dimensions to her skills.
Envision a Bankai that unleashes devastating energy attacks or augments her physical abilities significantly, propelling Mashiro to the forefront of combat. The full scope of her Shikai remains unexplored, leaving much to the imagination regarding her potential Bankai.
3) Hiyori Sarugaki
Hiyori Sarugaki, another Visored and a former lieutenant, utilizes the Shikai Kubikiri Orochi, transforming her katana into a massive cleaver with serrated edges. With a potential Bankai, she could blend her Shinigami and Hollow powers into a fearsome and versatile weapon.
This transformation might feature an elongated, menacing blade that possesses corrosive properties or toxins, reflecting her fierce and combative nature. Hiyori’s dual powers and combat skills position her among Bleach’s mightiest characters.
2) Lisa Yadomaru
Lisa Yadomaru, a Visored and former lieutenant of the 8th Division, is known for her composed and serious demeanor. Her Shikai, Haguro Tonbo, transforms into a polearm featuring a spade and a heavy ball, granting her exceptional melee capabilities.
Given her expertise with weapons, her potential Bankai could conjure multiple long-range weaponry, enhancing her versatility in combat. It might also bestow new abilities, such as energy manipulation or heightened physical strikes, showcasing her overall strength.
1) Hachigen Ushoda
Hachigen Ushōda, commonly referred to as Hachi, stands out as one of Bleach’s most powerful figures who has yet to reveal a Bankai. A member of the Visored and a previous lieutenant of the Kido Corps, he is celebrated for his Kido expertise, being among the most skilled practitioners within the narrative.
Hachi’s already impressive Kido abilities would likely reach new heights with a Bankai, possibly amplifying his offensive prowess and enabling him to unleash devastating Kido attacks capable of overwhelming opponents. Furthermore, his Bankai could also introduce innovative spells that reflect his profound mastery of Kido, solidifying his status as a formidable force.
Conclusion
Reflecting on these Bleach characters who never attained Bankai fosters appreciation for the depth and intricacy of Tite Kubo’s storytelling. Their narratives are woven intricately throughout the series, illustrating their significant contributions despite lacking this ultimate ability. While their full potential remains unexplored, envisioning what could have been offers an intriguing insight into the possibilities within the Bleach universe.
Leave a Reply