Exploring MAPPA's Brilliant Decision to Retain Naoya Zenin for Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3

The second season of the popular anime series Jujutsu Kaisen came to an end on December 28, 2023, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the release of season 3. Fortunately, the production of the third season has been officially announced shortly after the finale, leaving fans hoping for a swift release.

Both anime-only fans and manga-readers are eagerly discussing what to expect in Jujutsu Kaisen season 3. The upcoming season has already confirmed that it will cover the Culling Games arcs, promising plenty of exciting moments for fans to anticipate.

Saving Naoya for Jujutsu Kaisen season 3 allows season 2 to end on the perfect cliffhanger, and more

However, manga fans are currently focused on a specific character who will play a significant role in both the early and late parts of Jujutsu Kaisen season 3. This character is Naoya Zenin, and the decision to introduce him in the upcoming third season, rather than in the final moments of the second season, is considered one of MAPPA's smartest choices for the series.

Why it’s MAPPA’s best decision, explored

Delaying Naoya Zenin’s introduction for Jujutsu Kaisen season 3 had an immediate and thrilling impact, unrelated to the third season. By not rushing it, MAPPA was able to end season 2 with the dramatic cliffhanger of Yuta Okkotsu’s return and his determination to kill protagonist Yuji Itadori. This decision generated a buzz on social media since the season 2 finale, particularly among anime-only fans, as the cliffhanger left them eagerly awaiting more.

The decision to save Naoya’s introduction for Jujutsu Kaisen season 3 also maintains the authenticity and flow of his initial debut in the series. Trying to introduce Naoya in the season 2 finale would have required reordering and potentially rushing through important events that are now scheduled to kick off the third season.

Naoya may not be the central figure in the events of the third season, but his introduction and subsequent role are still memorable and crucial to the narrative. By following the manga's lead in introducing Naoya, MAPPA studios effectively emphasize his significance and original introduction from the manga.

Furthermore, Naoya is hardly mentioned in the series overall, especially in the second season. Introducing him at the end of the second season instead of waiting for Jujutsu Kaisen season 3 could potentially confuse anime-only fans rather than piquing their interest.

Naoya’s debut in the series is closely connected to the aftermath of the Shibuya Incident, rather than the incident itself. By revealing the fallout in the final moments of season 2, fans can understand the full context and importance of Naoya within the series' world and recent events.

Stay updated on all Jujutsu Kaisen anime and manga news, as well as general anime, manga, film, and live-action news as 2023 unfolds.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan of Jujutsu Kaisen, I'm thrilled about the upcoming third season and MAPPA's decision to retain Naoya Zenin. The cliffhanger ending of season 2, with Yuta Okkotsu's return and his ominous intentions towards Yuji Itadori, has left me eagerly anticipating what's to come. MAPPA's decision to delay Naoya's introduction until season 3 has only heightened the excitement and buzz surrounding the series.

I appreciate MAPPA's commitment to staying true to the manga's storyline and pacing. Introducing Naoya in the season 2 finale would have felt rushed and potentially overshadowed the impact of Yuta's return. By saving Naoya's introduction for season 3, MAPPA can give him the proper development and significance he deserves, ensuring that his role in the Culling Games arc is as impactful as it is in the manga.