Sukuna’s Absence in Jujutsu Kaisen Makes the Series Feel Like a “Bitter Meal Without Seasoning” Not Just Gojo

Jujutsu Kaisen chapter 270 is scheduled for release on September 23, 2024. However, spoilers for the chapter have already surfaced, revealing that Sukuna’s absence has significantly impacted the series. Following the demise of the main antagonist, the chapter transitioned from its typically ‘serious’ tone to a more cheerful atmosphere as sorcerers resumed their daily lives.

The chapter also hinted at the possible return of Kenjaku through a character reminiscent of him, featuring a similar hairstyle but an undisclosed face. The fandom is still reeling from the absence of the King of Curses, with one Twitter user (@miyayamsotoQ) expressing that the series feels like a “bitter meal without any seasoning,”a sentiment echoed by many in the community.

Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers from the Jujutsu Kaisen manga and includes the author’s opinions.

Jujutsu Kaisen: The Impact of Sukuna’s Absence on the Series

Ryomen Sukuna as seen in the anime (Image via Shueisha)

In Jujutsu Kaisen chapter 270, spoilers reveal a shift in focus from the battlefield to Jujutsu Tech, highlighting the sorcerers navigating their everyday lives and dealing with the fallout from the chaos caused by the King of Curses. During this chapter, Megumi and Shoko visit the grave of Yuki Tsukumo to pay their respects, while Utahime and other officials explore the remains of Tengen.

The spoilers also suggested a ‘potential’ return of Kenjaku, featuring a scene where Takaba converses with someone resembling the Jujutsu Kaisen antagonist. This change in tone illustrates a new focus on the characters’ daily routines.

However, the fandom feels the void left by a specific sorcerer—unexpectedly, it’s not Gojo Satoru, whom fans have clamored for the author to bring back. Instead, the absence of the final antagonist, Ryomen Sukuna, who fell to the protagonist Itadori Yuji in recent chapters, has been profoundly felt.

The King of Curses infused the series with suspense, as he defeated any sorcerer who dared to confront him. This challenged the audience’s imagination about which future sorcerer could potentially defeat him.

As anticipated, Itadori delivered the final strike to the King of Curses, albeit aided by a collective effort from various sorcerers. Yet, without an antagonist, fans express that Jujutsu Kaisen has become less engaging, reminiscent of a dish lacking flavor.

Sukuna as the Series’ Final Antagonist

Sukuna as seen in the anime (Image via MAPPA)

The King of Curses was introduced in the inaugural chapter/episode as a resurrected cursed spirit, once a sorcerer himself. Sukuna awakened within Itadori Yuji, aspiring to reclaim his status as the strongest sorcerer, but was challenged by the mightiest sorcerer of the time, Gojo Satoru.

Despite Sukuna’s persistent challenges to Gojo, their much-anticipated fight was delayed until Sukuna shifted to Fushiguro Megumi, culminating in the Battle of the Strongest during the Shinjuku Showdown arc.

After an intense confrontation, Sukuna surprisingly caught Gojo off guard, resulting in the latter’s unexpected demise. This marked the beginning of Sukuna’s reign, wherein every sorcerer that challenged him met defeat, solidifying him as a central narrative device.

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