The Shinjuku Showdown Arc is widely considered the most crucial aspect of Jujutsu Kaisen’s climactic storyline. In this breakdown, we will delve into the details of this significant arc.
Despite its shorter length compared to other similar works, Jujutsu Kaisen more than compensates with its condensed yet action-packed story arcs. From the destructive Shibuya Incident to the jaw-dropping Culling Game, each arc is a must-see.
The Shinjuku Showdown marks the culmination of the series, bringing all the elements together. This highly-anticipated finale features the ultimate showdown between the strongest characters, Satoru Gojo and Ryomen Sukuna.
The Shinjuku Showdown Arc is highly praised for its intense fight scenes and numerous significant character deaths. Although it may not have the most intricate plot, it serves as the culmination of the story and requires our undivided attention. (Caution: Spoilers ahead!)
What Happens in the Shinjuku Showdown Arc?
The main focus of the Shinjuku Showdown Arc is the epic showdown between Sukuna and the jujutsu sorcerers.
The Culling Game is the focus of the final arc, beginning with Chapter 222. Sukuna takes control of Megumi Fushiguro’s body and destroys his desire to live by murdering Tsumiki. Uraume and Kenjaku then join forces with Sukuna.
In another location, Hana Kurusu and Angel utilize Jacob’s Ladder on the Prison Realm in order to successfully rescue Gojo. Upon his release, Gojo immediately confronts Kenjaku but is interrupted by Sukuna. Gojo then challenges Sukuna to a battle on the day of Christmas Eve, the same day Suguru Geto met his demise.
Chapter 222 depicts the preparations made by both sides for the highly anticipated battle of the series. The fight ultimately commences in Chapter 223, with Gojo utilizing Utahime’s cursed technique to enhance his 120% Hollow Purple.
The Gojo and Sukuna battle persists for 12 chapters, with the two engaging in multiple domain clashes and utilizing all available tactics, including Megumi’s Ten Shadows Technique.
After an intense battle, Gojo meets his demise at the hands of Mahoraga, who was able to counter his Purple Hollow, and Sukuna, who utilized his world-slashing Dismantle. Chapter 236 definitively declares Sukuna as the victor of the fight and the greatest sorcerer in history.
Sukuna vs. Jujutsu Sorcerers
After Gojo’s passing, Sukuna must confront Hajime Kashimo while Kinji Hikari engages Uraume in battle. In the midst of the chaos, Sukuna reclaims his true form and eliminates Kashimo. Chapter 238 sees the arrival of Yuji Itadori and Hiromi Higuruma to join the fray.
Despite the assistance of Yuji, Choso, and Atsuya Kusakabe, Higuruma is unable to defeat Sukuna with the Executioner’s Sword and ultimately takes his own life. However, before his demise, Sukuna recognizes Higuruma’s determination and admits that he possesses potential, not just power, on par with Gojo.
As Higuruma takes his last breath, Yuta Okkotsu and Rika launch a surprise attack on Sukuna and then activate his domain expansion. It is soon discovered that Yuji possesses the power to touch souls with his punches. While Sukuna is engaged in battle with Yuta, Yuji seizes the opportunity to reach Megumi using his newfound ability.
Despite Megumi’s loss of will to live and rejection of Yuji’s aid, the domain is broken and the King of Curses almost defeats Yuta after surviving Yuta’s Jacob’s Ladder. Following this, Maki steps up to fight.
The confrontation between Sukuna and Maki lasts only two chapters before the sorcerer is incapacitated by Sukuna’s Black Flash. The responsibility then falls to Kusakabe, but he too is unable to emerge victorious.
In the Shinjuku Showdown Arc, Miguel Oduol and Larue make a reappearance. Their battle against Sukuna commences in Chapter 255. However, as anticipated, they are unable to defeat the King of Curses.
After Sukuna demonstrates his complete Divine Flame technique, Choso heroically sacrifices himself to protect Yuji. The Death Painting meets its end in Chapter 259, and Aoi Todo makes his entrance in the same chapter. Yuji and Aoi then join forces to battle against Sukuna.
Kenjaku’s End
While Sukuna is occupied battling Gojo, Kenjaku must also confront a few adversaries. Initially, he easily defeats Iori Hazenoki. However, his toughest opponent yet turns out to be the comedian Fumihiko Takaba.
The battle commences in Chapter 239, showcasing the immense strength of Takaba’s cursed technique. It persists until Chapter 243, where the comedian ultimately meets his demise. Nonetheless, this leads to an opportunity for Yuta to step forward.
During Kenjaku’s distraction with Takaba, Yuta takes advantage and swiftly beheads him, ultimately bringing an end to the villain’s tale in the Shinjuku Showdown Arc.
It is later revealed that Rika consumes his remains and mimics his cursed technique. With this ability, Yuta successfully returns to the game. He then transfers his mind into Gojo’s body in order to utilize his Limitless and Six Eyes techniques.
After his absence, Yuta returns to battle Sukuna in Chapter 260. This scene has sparked controversy among fans, as opinions are divided on its relevance to the series. Furthermore, Yuta’s transformation effectively dismisses any theories of Gojo’s potential revival.
Yuta, in his transformed state, initiates another clash with Sukuna in their respective domains. In an attempt to halt the ancient sorcerer, he utilizes Toge Inumaki’s Cursed Speech, while unleashing Hollow Purple. Despite this effort, Sukuna manages to endure the attack and the subsequent Jacob’s Ladder.
New York City
Yuji’s Journey to Success
New York City – A Vibrant Metropolis
Following Yuta’s collapse from exhaustion in the midst of battle, Yuji is forced to step into the spotlight. In a moment of desperation, he unleashes his domain expansion to trap Sukuna inside. The powerful sorcerer awakens to find himself in an abandoned train station, summoned by Yuji to an empty town.
During their stroll through the town, Yuji reminisces about his childhood with Sukuna before making a firm demand. He proposes a deal to spare Sukuna’s life and become his vessel in exchange for the release of Megumi.
Sukuna, of course, refuses to accept the offer and becomes furious. This marks the beginning of the final stage of the Shinjuku Showdown Arc, and Jujutsu Kaisen will conclude entirely with the release of Chapter 271 on September 30, 2024.
This indicates that Yuji will probably be the final adversary that the King of Curses faces before his tyrannical rule comes to an end.
Shinjuku Showdown – The Final Arc of Jujutsu Kaisen
The Shinjuku Showdown Arc marks the final story arc of Jujutsu Kaisen before its conclusion.
The story will reach its conclusion as Sukuna is finally defeated. Additionally, the arc will unveil the fates of the remaining characters, including Yuta who has taken up residence within Gojo’s body.
Prior to the conclusion of the arc (and the manga), there are several unresolved matters that must be addressed. Megumi remains imprisoned by Sukuna, but with Yuji’s support, he may attempt to break free. As the secondary protagonist, Megumi is expected to have a pivotal role in the concluding arc.
The narrative must also address the merger plotline, as Kenjaku entrusts control of the merger to Sukuna before his death. In a last-ditch effort, the King of Curses may activate it after being defeated by Yuji. However, given the series’ history of unexpected developments, it is impossible to predict the outcome with certainty.
Continue your exploration of the jujutsu world with our comprehensive guides on the most powerful ancient and present-day sorcerers. Additionally, discover the fate of Nobara in the popular series, Jujutsu Kaisen.
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