The initial segment of Bleach: Thousand Year Blood War concluded with a glimmer of hope. Despite suffering a resounding defeat, Ichigo, the captains, and the rest of the Soul Society are not ones to stay down for long. They are fully aware that the Quincy will return, and thus they must ready themselves to confront this impending nightmare once again.
With the announcement of an anime adaptation for the final story arc of Bleach, years after the original manga's conclusion, the show's creators assured fans that the narrative would be presented in four parts, known as four cours. As the second part of this concluding season draws near, we offer a glimpse into some of the things that can be anticipated, as portrayed in the manga. We have taken care to avoid any potential spoilers, of course.
Thousand Year Blood War: Anime vs Manga
The final arc of Bleach, unlike previous seasons, was adapted without filler episodes, resulting in a faithful and accurate anime adaptation that closely follows the original manga. However, it raises the question of how much of the manga was actually adapted. The Thousand-Year Blood War, spanning from volumes 55 to 74 (chapter 480 to chapter 686), was condensed into the first part of the anime adaptation, covering the story from volume 55 to the beginning of volume 61 (chapter 480 to chapter 542), totaling 62 chapters.
New Powers, New Forms
Assuming that the second part of the arc will also span approximately 50 to 60 chapters, we can anticipate the anime adaptation to encompass chapters 542 to somewhere between chapter 592 and chapter 602. In other words, this would cover Bleach volume 61 to approximately volume 66 or volume 67. If you find yourself eager and curious about what unfolds after the conclusion of the first part of this arc, you now have a reference point for the specific chapters to read.
After the conclusion of the initial phase of the Thousand-Year Blood War, we witness captains like Hitsugaya and Komamura, who have been deprived of their bankai, diligently searching for alternative sources of power. Another glimpse into this intense period reveals characters like Shuhei Hisagi, the co-lieutenant of the 9th division, fervently honing their bankai skills. The following pivotal moment unfolds as Ichigo, at long last, receives the revitalized and enhanced version of his zanpakuto, the legendary Zangetsu. And finally, we bear witness to the leader of the Quincy, Yhwach, introducing Ishida Uryuu to his formidable army.
In the second part of the Thousand-Year Blood War, the aforementioned captains discover even greater powers than before. Each individual has their own distinct method of attaining these newfound abilities. Some must delve deep within themselves to awaken dormant powers, while others can summon immense power at the cost of their own life. A few experience alterations in their appearance as a representation of their new powers, while others undergo minimal changes.
In addition to these transformations, the second part of the Thousand-Year Blood War will showcase unexpected appearances from the Sternritters. The formidable ones finally join the battle, showcasing their peculiar and perilous abilities. Furthermore, viewers will be introduced to the Vollstandig, which is akin to the Quincies' bankai. Each Vollstandig possesses peculiar powers and even stranger appearances.
Epic Fights, Epic Deaths
With great power comes great conflict. In the second part of the Thousand-Year Blood War, almost everyone receives an upgrade and new participants enter the fray, resulting in extraordinary and exhilarating battles in Bleach. The scale and variety of these battles will surpass anything seen before.
Prepare yourself for unprecedented levels of chaos and devastation. War will be waged with intricate strategies and deceit, leading to unexpected locations for battles. Noteworthy encounters include the clashes with a group of deranged female sternritters, the peculiar showdown involving Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi, the unexpected attacks by Captain Hitsugaya, and the epic confrontation between the Royal Guard and Yhwach and his top followers. From encounters with the undead to battles against giants, you will witness a multitude of remarkable and astonishing action sequences in this chapter of the story.
One thing that should be mentioned, however, is that epic battles often result in tragic deaths. As expected in conflicts of such magnitude, casualties will be widespread. While the majority will be Quincies, the shinigami forces will also suffer significant losses. In an unfortunate twist, several beloved characters will meet their demise during this phase of the arc.
Release Date
Scheduled for release on July 8th, the highly anticipated second part of Bleach's final season, titled The Thousand-Year Blood War - The Separation, will be available for international viewers to enjoy. Both Hulu and Disney+ will be featuring this series as part of their Summer 2023 anime lineup, ensuring a simultaneous premiere experience. Don't miss out on this exciting installment.