Jujutsu Kaisen has become one of the most talked-about series in the anime and manga communities in recent years, thanks to its captivating plot and intriguing characters. Among the many characters in the show, Maki Zen’in has consistently been a fan favorite.
Maki's character has often been compared to Toji due to their similarities. However, the recent introduction of the special grade sorcerer, Yuki Tsukumo, in the anime has brought about new comparisons. With Yuki's charming character now in the mix, fans are evaluating how Maki stacks up against Yuki's formidable strength.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers from the Jujutsu Kaisen manga and reflects the writer's opinion.
A comparative analysis of strength: Yuki Tsukumo vs. Maki Zen’in in Jujutsu Kaisen
The Jujutsu Kaisen fan community is currently ablaze with discussions pitting Maki against Yuki Tsukumo, drawing comparisons to Toji Zen'in. Yuki, a prominent figure in the present era, is renowned as one of the four special-grade sorcerers.
The other three special-grade sorcerers of the current era are Satoru Gojo, the most powerful sorcerer, Yuta Okkotsu, a second-year student at Tokyo Jujutsu High, and Suguru Geto, who is currently possessed by Kenjaku.
Special-grade sorcerers are distinguished by their immense strength and ability to single-handedly devastate entire nations. They also possess an exceptionally large amount of Cursed Energy, giving them a significant advantage in battles. Based on this definition alone, it can be concluded that Maki is nowhere near as strong as Yuki.
Yuki Tsukumo's overpowering abilities
Yuki as seen in Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 (Image via MAPPA)
Yuki Tsukumo showcased her impressive abilities in a fierce confrontation with the ancient sorcerer Kenjaku in chapters 205-208 of the Jujutsu Kaisen manga.
Her formidable Cursed Technique, Star Rage (also known as Bom Ba Ye), caused Kenjaku to question his own ability to defeat her single-handedly, describing her as a "Wild Beast" due to her unrestrained strength.
This showdown highlighted her skill in hand-to-hand combat, control of her shikigami Garuda, expert use of the Reversed Cursed Technique, and tactical acumen.
Yuki vs. Kenjaku in the manga (Image via Gege Akutami/Shueisha)\
The story of Jujutsu Kaisen also shows her proficiency in Simple Domain and Domain Expansions, though the details of her Domain Expansion are still unknown. Yuki utilized her ability to control masses of Cursed Energy to summon a real black hole in a bid to defeat Kenjaku. Despite her sacrifice being in vain, her display of immense strength showcases her value as a special-grade sorcerer.
Maki Zen'in's power in contrast to Yuki's
Comparing Yuki to the current anime character Maki Zen'in would be unfair, as Maki reaches her full potential during and after the Perfect Preparation Arc, events likely to be covered in the anime's third season. During this arc, Maki unleashes her true abilities by purging all remnants of her Cursed Energy following her twin sister Mai Zen'in's death. This allows her Heavenly Restrictions to reach a level comparable to that of Toji Zen'in.
As a result, she develops a strong and durable body, reaching a level of physical strength equal to that of Toji.
Maki being compared to Toji in Jujutsu Kaisen Manga (Image via Akutami Gege/Shueisha)
In the following part of the Jujutsu Kaisen manga, Maki faces off against the entire Zen'in Clan and its powerful sorcerers all on her own. She easily defeats her father, Ogi Zen’in, and then takes down the entire Kukuru Unit and the Hei, who are known as the strongest sorcerers in the clan. On top of that, she also overcomes Naoya Zen’in, the son of the former clan leader Naobito Zen’in.
Nevertheless, although Maki possesses overwhelming strength, she is still hindered by her limited battle experience. This was evident during her confrontation with Naoya Zen'in's cursed spirit in chapter 192.
Maki as seen in the anime's season 2 (Image via MAPPA)
Noritoshi Kamo, a student from Kyoto Jujutsu High, provided assistance, but they still struggled to overcome the curse. Maki faced challenges in her battle against Sukuna and Uraume, leaving her at a disadvantage. This emphasizes that Yuki Tsukumo, a special-grade sorcerer, possesses undeniable power that surpasses Maki's abilities. Regardless of how much strength Maki Zen'in gains, she will never be able to match Yuki, just as Toji Zen'in could never surpass Satoru Gojo's strength, even in his prime.
Editor's P/S
As a passionate fan of Jujutsu Kaisen, I am thrilled to see the power struggle between Yuki Tsukumo and Maki Zen'in. Yuki's introduction as a special-grade sorcerer has sparked comparisons to Maki, who has been a fan favorite since the beginning. While both characters possess remarkable strength, their abilities and backgrounds differ significantly. Yuki's overwhelming Cursed Technique, Star Rage, and her mastery of hand-to-hand combat, shikigami control, and tactical acumen make her a formidable opponent. Her confrontation with Kenjaku showcased her immense strength and willingness to sacrifice herself for the greater good.
On the other hand, Maki's journey towards reaching her full potential is equally captivating. Despite not being a special-grade sorcerer, Maki's growth and development throughout the series have been nothing short of extraordinary. Her ability to purge all remnants of her Cursed Energy and achieve Heavenly Restrictions comparable to Toji Zen'in is a testament to her determination and resilience. Maki's battles against the Zen'in Clan and her subsequent victories against powerful sorcerers further solidify her status as a formidable force in the Jujutsu world.