A Missed Opportunity: The Underrated Jujutsu Kaisen Character in the Shibuya Arc

The Shibuya Arc of Jujutsu Kaisen's sixth arc was a thrilling spectacle that left fans with conflicting emotions. The focal point of the entire debacle was the elaborate scheme to imprison Gojo Satoru, the most powerful jujutsu sorcerer, on October 31, 2018. Pseudo-Geto, with the support of Cursed Spirits like Jogo, Hanami, and Mahito, orchestrated a plan to eliminate their greatest adversary once and for all.

Throughout the Shibuya Incident, numerous sorcerers were entrusted with critical responsibilities, which they diligently pursued. Ultimately, the antagonists' scheme succeeded, resulting in Gojo Satoru's imprisonment. Many feel that a particular character was underutilized, and surprisingly, it's not Utahime Iori, but rather Jujutsu Kaisen's Kokichi Muta, also known as Mechamaru.

Kokichi Muta could have been used better in Jujutsu Kaisen's Shibuya Arc

Kokichi Muta in Jujutsu Kaisen (Image via MAPPA)

There were suspicions of a mole at Jujutsu High and Utahime directed Gojo's first years to investigate Mechmaru. Through a process of elimination, his name came up due to his Puppet Manipulation Cursed Technique, which could easily allow him to steal and share information with the enemy. When they tried to find him at his hideout, he was not there, as he was meeting with Pseudo-Geto and Mahito. They had made a deal for Kokichi's information about Jujutsu High in exchange for Mahito repairing Mechmaru's body.

Kokichi Muta a.k.a. Mechamaru abilities

After fulfilling the contract, Kokichi Muta regained his body, and the enemy obtained their information. This led to a confrontation between Mahito and Kokichi, resulting in the latter's defeat and the end of his character. Jujutsu Kaisen considered this to be a significant tragedy considering the character's potential.

Mechamaru as depicted in the anime Jujutsu Kaisen (Image via MAPPA)

Despite being a student, Kokichi Muta from Jujutsu Kaisen was a Semi-Grade 1 Jujutsu Sorcerer, showcasing impressive overall skill. Through his Puppet Manipulation Cursed Technique, he had the ability to remotely control multiple puppets, each possessing formidable battle capabilities.

Kokichi was truly one-of-a-kind due to his Heavenly Restriction. Unlike Toji Fushiguro and Maki Zenin, his situation was the complete opposite. He was born with a missing right arm and a disabled lower half, but in return, he possessed an enormous reserve of Cursed Energy, which he used to enhance his Cursed Technique.

In terms of Jujutsu, Kokichi had a wide range of abilities. His Heavenly Restriction and his Innate Technique (Puppet Manipulation) allowed him to inhabit a Mechamaru, a Cursed corpse that he controlled to attend school and carry out missions. This corpse was equipped with weapons such as Swords, Shields, and Cannons, all of which he could enhance.

In Jujutsu Kaisen, Kokichi unleashed the Ultimate Mechamaru, Mode: Absolute during his intense battle against Mahito. This upgraded version of Mechamaru was formidable, capable of unleashing large-scale attacks and equipped with advanced techniques including the Miracle Cannon and Pigeon Viola.

What if Kokichi Muta survived?

Despite his physical abilities, Kokichi Muta showcased a sharp tactical intellect. He constantly analyzed his opponent's fighting style and strategized to outsmart them. His skill even earned praise from Pseudo-Geto, who acknowledged that Kokichi had come close to defeating Mahito.

The outcome of Jujutsu Kaisen's Shibuya Arc might have been different if Kokichi Muta had managed to survive. If he had somehow survived his battle against Mahito, he could have provided valuable assistance in Shibuya. Instead of relying on mini-Mechamaru to convey information, he could have been physically present through Mechamaru and perhaps even intervened in Gojo's sealing.

Following the Shibuya incident, it's true that he may have had to deal with the repercussions of the Binding Vow made with Mahito. Nevertheless, given time, he likely would have been able to harness his abilities to the fullest with his newly restored body.

Panda, in particular, would have been invaluable in helping him refine his puppet technique and corpse manipulation. In summary, he had the potential to be an outstanding support in Jujutsu Kaisen.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I'm a huge fan of Jujutsu Kaisen and I was eagerly waiting for the Shibuya Arc. While the arc delivered some amazing moments, I couldn't help but feel disappointed with the underutilization of Kokichi Muta, also known as Mechamaru. I believe he had the potential to be a game-changer in the battle against Pseudo-Geto and his allies.

Mechamaru's Puppet Manipulation Cursed Technique and Heavenly Restriction made him a unique and formidable sorcerer. His ability to control multiple puppets, each with its own set of weapons and abilities, gave him a significant advantage in combat. Additionally, his tactical intellect and ability to analyze his opponents' fighting styles made him a valuable asset to the jujutsu sorcerers.