Nobara Kugisaki quickly gained immense popularity among fans of Jujutsu Kaisen due to her captivating personality, unique fighting style, and undeniable charisma. Despite her impressive traits, Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 has revealed that Nobara still has a considerable distance to cover in order to achieve Grade 1 status as a sorcerer, as demonstrated in her confrontation with Shigemo.
The Shibuya Incident arc has elevated the power dynamics within the series, shedding light on the formidable challenges faced by these sorcerers. Hence, it is reasonable to understand why Nobara Kugisaki may find herself lagging behind other formidable opponents. Nevertheless, Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 also introduced Nanami Kento, a Grade 1 sorcerer with unmatched combat skills, further highlighting Nobara's current inferiority in comparison.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for Jujutsu Kaisen season 2.
Nobara Kugisaki still has a long way to go in Jujutsu Kaisen season 2
Nobara Kugisaki left a strong impression in Jujutsu Kaisen season 1, but her abilities were exposed during the Shibuya Incident arc, highlighting her current limitations as a sorcerer. Nanami Kento, a Grade 1 sorcerer, candidly pointed out that she falls short of the necessary standards to confront the Curses. Despite his advice, Nobara chose to disregard his words.
Nanami was straightforward about being a Grade 1 sorcerer, which meant he was only at the minimum level to face their enemies. That's why he told Nobara not to get involved in the conflict. The battle against Shigemo confirmed this, as Nanami was the only one capable of defeating him, showcasing his expertise and mastery of Jujutsu sorcery up to that point.
Grade 1 sorcerers are considered to be the highest level attainable without possessing special and overpowered abilities that are innate, like Satoru Gojo, Yuta Okkotsu, and Suguru Geto. These individuals are known as Special Grade sorcerers. If Nobara Kugisaki is not on the same level as Nanami, then she is far from the capabilities of Gojo or Geto.
Nobara's role in the story
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Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 has a treat in store for fans of Nobara Kugisaki who only watch the anime. Despite the first season beautifully introducing and endearing her character to the audience, this upcoming season, focusing on the Shibuya Incident arc, will undoubtedly leave a significant portion of the fandom heartbroken.
In the manga, avid readers are well aware that Nobara disregards Nanami's advice and joins the battle, crossing paths with Mahito while he is engaged in a fight against Yuji Itadori. Determined to assist Yuji, she holds her ground for a while. However, tragedy strikes when the Curse ultimately inflicts a fatal blow to her eye, seemingly claiming her life in the process.
The handling of Nobara's "death" in Jujutsu Kaisen has sparked discussion among fans, as it suggested the possibility of her return. However, as the series nears its conclusion, the likelihood of her comeback appears highly unlikely. This has led to frustration among many fans, who feel that her character deserved a more significant role within the main cast.
Final thoughts
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Nobara Kugisaki is beloved by fans, and Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 appears to recognize that. However, it is important to note that she is not one of the most powerful characters in the series. Nevertheless, this should not be seen as a criticism because there are numerous incredible characters who may not possess great strength but still bring immense enjoyment, with Nobara serving as a prime illustration.