Jujutsu Kaisen (Rating 4.58)

Amazon Link

Summay

Score

Overall Review

• This work skillfully incorporates the concepts of curses and sorcery, breathing fresh life into the battle x dark fantasy genre.
• It delves deep into themes like death and the negative emotions of humanity, showcasing characters’ growth and struggles in a memorable way.
• The standout feature is its vividly unique characters, who leave a strong impact on the story. Combined with the striking visual design and powerful action scenes, the series truly excels.
• While the story progresses smoothly and maintains a good pace, there are moments where the plot feels rushed or lulls slightly.
• The climax delivers an exciting conclusion, with dramatic arcs and a highly polished narrative that makes this a thoroughly enjoyable series!

Synopsis

• In a world where curses exist, sorcerers fight against them in a dark, action-packed fantasy.
• High school student Yuji Itadori swallows a cursed object, the Finger of Sukuna, and becomes the host of Sukuna, the most powerful curse.
• With his unique condition, Yuji embarks on the path of a sorcerer, joining forces with allies to confront the curses.
• Amid themes of friendship, internal conflict, and intense battles, the unfolding truths of the world add greater depth to the narrative.
• This work captivates with its intricate world-building and dynamic, powerful depictions.

Detailed Evaluation

Story (15.8 / 18.5)

1. Originality & Freshness of Ideas (4.8 / 6.0)
   The concepts of curses and sorcery borrow elements from existing ideas, but the detailed mechanisms, world-building, and characters’ abilities feel fresh and innovative.
   While it stands out within the battle x dark fantasy genre, some aspects might feel familiar.
2. Themes & Message (5.0 / 5.0)
   The exploration of death and negative human emotions leaves a lasting impression. Yuji Itadori’s struggles and choices as a sorcerer are especially poignant and impactful.
3. Risk-Taking Attitude (2.0 / 2.5)
   The bold depiction of dark themes and character deaths is noteworthy. Some shocking character exits challenge readers but may divide opinions.
4. Ending Completeness (4.0 / 5.0)
   The conclusion ties up major plotlines and delves into the essence of curses, leaving a strong impression. However, parts like the Shibuya Incident Arc felt rushed, and certain characters (e.g., Toji Fushiguro) could have benefited from deeper exploration.

Characters (17.5 / 18.5)

5. Uniqueness and Impressions (5.0 / 5.0)
   Iconic characters like Gojo Satoru, Sukuna, and Megumi Fushiguro stand out for their strong individuality and distinctive designs.
6. Growth and Internal Consistency (4.0 / 5.0)
   Yuji’s growth and internal conflicts are well-developed. However, secondary characters like Nanami Kento and Maki Zen’in could use more depth to enhance emotional attachment.
7. Character Conviction and Relatability (6.0 / 6.0)
   From the main cast to supporting roles, the characters’ motivations and backstories are well-crafted, making it easy to empathize with them.
8. Relationships with Other Characters (2.5 / 2.5)
   The multi-faceted relationships between characters play a vital role in advancing the story and adding emotional weight.

Visuals (22.0 / 23.5)

9. Character Design Originality (5.0 / 5.0)
   The unique designs, such as Gojo’s blindfold and Sukuna’s tattoos, perfectly capture the series’ tone and enhance its visual appeal.
10. Character Movement and Expression (5.0 / 5.0)
    Emotional expressions and dynamic combat sequences are superbly executed, leaving a strong visual impact.
11. Background and Worldbuilding (4.0 / 5.0)
    While the world is detailed, some areas—like Shibuya’s battle locations and daily life at Jujutsu High—could have used more intricate depictions to enhance immersion.
12. Sense of Immersion (6.0 / 6.0)
    The tension in battle scenes and dramatic moments draws readers deep into the world.
13. Innovation in Expression Techniques (2.0 / 2.5)
    Creative panel layouts and combat effects stand out, though they don’t entirely break new ground.

Pacing (19.0 / 21.0)

14. Pacing of the Introduction (5.0 / 5.0)
    The story kicks off immediately, captivating readers from the beginning.
15. Smoothness of Development (4.0 / 5.0)
    While generally smooth, arcs like the Shibuya Incident and Culling Game feature rushed or dense sections.
16. Presence of Lulls (4.0 / 5.0)
    The early stages of the Culling Game and the Eight-Handed Sword Divergent Sila Divine General Arc felt slightly slower in comparison to the intense main arcs.
17. Build-Up to the Climax (6.0 / 6.0)
    Each arc’s climax is dramatic and highly satisfying.

First Impressions (5.0 / 5.0)

18. Cover/Key Visual Impact (2.5 / 2.5)
    The cover art captures the series’ atmosphere perfectly and is eye-catching.
19. Title Impression (2.5 / 2.5)
    The title Jujutsu Kaisen succinctly conveys the series’ theme and is memorable.

Volume Count

Total: 30 (Complete)

Author

Author

• Gege Akutami

Other works

• Jujutsu Kaisen 0: A prequel to the main series, originally published in Jump GIGA.
• Kamikaze: Akutami’s debut one-shot, featured in Jump NEXT!! 2014.
• No. 9: Another one-shot, published in Jump NEXT!! 2015.

Amazon Link