Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 to Explore Pre-Manga Conflict Introduced Early On

Fans are eagerly awaiting the launch of Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3, yet one particular aspect of this upcoming season may have flown under the radar for many. While it’s common knowledge that this season will explore the relatively brief Itadori Extermination arc before diving deeper into the more complex Culling Game arc, there is a profound narrative twist that adds significant depth to the series as a whole.

The conclusion of Season 2 subtly led into the Itadori Extermination arc. During this transition, we see Yuta Okkotsu—the lead from Jujutsu Kaisen 0—tasked with the mission of eliminating Itadori Yuji, who loses control when Sukuna initially wreaks havoc during the Shibuya Incident. This interesting narrative choice by creator Gege Akutami serves various implications for the broader plotline, marking a crucial turning point in the franchise.

Yuta: The Original Protagonist of Jujutsu Kaisen

Gege Akutami’s Initial Vision Featured Yuta as the Star

Interestingly, Jujutsu Kaisen 0 is better understood as a precursor to the main series, rather than merely a prequel. Initially published as Tokyo Metropolitan Curse Technical School, this storyline came to light before the main saga, thriving in popularity. Undoubtedly, Jujutsu Kaisen owes its existence to the success of Jujutsu Kaisen 0.

For those familiar with Jujutsu Kaisen 0, the plot follows Yuta Okkotsu, who grapples with the spirit of his childhood friend and fiancée, Rika. After being discovered by Satoru Gojo, Yuta is guided and trained at Jujutsu High. Events escalate when Gojo’s former ally, Geto, attacks the school. Following an intense conflict, Gojo ultimately confronts Geto, setting the foundation for their intricate friendship that unfolds further in the main series.

One reason the characters in Jujutsu Kaisen resonate so powerfully is that many of them—like Gojo, Geto, and Maki Zen’in—existed in the narrative framework of Jujutsu Kaisen 0. Originally conceived as a brief manga, it was only through its incredible reception that it evolved into the expansive universe we know today. However, despite the presence of many other characters from the first series, Yuta’s absence in the anime was notable until he finally makes a comeback at the end of Season 2.

The Third Season Delivers a Showdown Between Two Rival Protagonists

Yuji and Yuta’s Fates Converge as Hinted in Season 2’s Finale

In the world of Jujutsu Kaisen, we were introduced to a new protagonist, Itadori Yuji. It’s important to note that when the manga was first released, many fans who cherished Jujutsu Kaisen 0 were initially less enthusiastic about Yuji. This sentiment persisted for a while, with viewpoints emerging that suggested Yuta should have been the central protagonist of the series.

As the third season unfolds, it becomes clear that the paths of these two protagonists will finally intersect. Yuta’s critical new role involves the task of exterminating Yuji. This situation brings Yuta fully into the overarching narrative of Jujutsu Kaisen. As the last character from Jujutsu Kaisen 0 to be woven into the anime’s tapestry, his involvement will significantly influence the events to come.

The Itadori Extermination arc marks a pivotal moment where Yuta’s entry transforms the dynamics of the story. His presence is not merely a nostalgic echo of the prologue; it signals the emergence of a new protagonist within the Jujutsu Kaisen universe. Thus, as the unfolding narrative progresses, Yuta will play a vital role in both the Culling Game and the Shibuya Showdown arcs that will lead the series to its conclusion.

Against Yuji, Yuta is not just defending his role as the prototypical protagonist, but also enhancing the meaning behind Yuji’s evolution as a character. If both Jujutsu Kaisen 0 and Jujutsu Kaisen can be viewed as explorations of differing themes, then the contrast between Yuta and Yuji will become increasingly evident in their future interactions. Each reveals crucial insights regarding Gege Akutami’s shifting concepts and goals for the series, primarily initiated by Yuta.

Ultimately, Yuta’s return will bring a sense of closure and continuity to Jujutsu Kaisen. Following the Itadori Extermination arc, the evolving thematic ties will intensify, showcasing the complex relationship and narratives surrounding Yuji’s desire to prove himself in comparison to Yuta’s established stature—one he is prepared to challenge decisively.

Source & Images