The second cour finale of Bleach TYBW was a visually stunning spectacle, filled with intense action that showcased the Zero Squad members in a whole new way compared to the manga. With Studio Pierrot's excellent production, the last two episodes revealed just why the Zero Squad is considered even more powerful than the entire Gotei 13.
The manga wasn't able to fully capture the incredible abilities of the Squad Zero members, but the Bleach TYBW anime has successfully brought their characters to life. Under the supervision of author Tite Kubo, the finale depicted the Squad Zero members unleashing their full power in a fierce battle against the Schutzstaffel.
Bleach TYBW finale sees the Zero Squad defeating the Schutzstaffel
The Zero Squad in Bleach received a phenomenal upgrade with extended battle sequences and the introduction of new ones, leading to an exhilarating portrayal in the final two installments. Fans are undeniably thrilled to witness this delightful transformation in Squad Zero's depiction.: Tite Kubo's Bleach manga faced criticism for its handling of the Zero Squad, the supposedly strongest group. They were effortlessly beaten by the Schutzstaffel after the Auschwahlen, and to add insult to injury, their final defeat was not even shown on-screen.
However, the conclusion of Bleach TYBW part 2 has completely transformed the narrative. With author Tite Kubo overseeing the project, Studio Pierrot has depicted the Zero Squad in a way that truly showcases their unparalleled strength. The last two episodes diverged significantly from the source material, presenting an epic clash between the Zero Squad and the Schutzstaffel.
Kirinji vs Jugram in Bleach TYBW (Image via Pierrot)
The Squad Zero members showed bravery as they engaged in a fierce battle against Yhwach's Royal Guards, instead of being killed off-screen. Notably, the new scenes emphasized the diverse abilities of the Zero Squad members.
In Bleach TYBW episode 25, Senjumaru Shutara confronted Uryu Ishida, while Tenjiro Kirinji engaged in a sword clash with Jugram. The Great Weave Guard skillfully weaved an umbrella, not only successfully blocking Uryu's Licht Reigen but also redirecting them back towards Uryu. This effortless tactic allowed her to defeat the Quincy easily.
The image above shows Senjumaru from Bleach TYBW (Image via Pierrot).
Contrasting with Senjumaru, Kirinji drew his blade, Kinpika, in order to overpower Jugram Haschwalth. By utilizing the dazzling radiance of Kinpika, he caught Jugram off-guard and successfully dislodged his defensive shield. Ultimately, Kirinji delivered a fatal strike, bringing an end to the intense battle.
Similarly, the Tree of Life was diligently maintained by Kirio Hikufune, who utilized her unique tactics. At the same time, Oetsu Nimaiya bravely confronted Askin Nakk le Vaar, undeterred by his formidable Death Dealing ability. Despite facing the challenge posed by Death Dealing, Oetsu ultimately emerged victorious and defeated Askin.
Squad Zero as seen in Bleach TYBW (Image via Pierrot)
In Bleach TYBW, Yhwach proceeds to perform the Auschwahlen in order to revive his Schutzstaffel members. Fans are eager to learn that, at this point in the manga, the Schutzstaffel defeats the Zero Squad. However, Studio Pierrot and Tite Kubo decided to go in a completely different direction.
The final episode of Bleach TYBW then opens with Lille Barro utilizing his X-Axis ability to pierce Oetsu Nimaiya's left shoulder. However, the protectors of the Soul King are not deterred by the Schutzstaffel's impressive strength and engage them in direct combat.
Squad Zero, as depicted in the anime series Bleach (Image via Pierrot).
Despite appearing to be vanquished, Oetsu conveyed that they had not yet harnessed the full potential of even a single Court Guard Squad. With determination, he rallied the fallen warriors of the Zero Squad, urging them to stand once again and confront the Royal Guards of the Quincies.
The protectors of the Soul King then appointed Senjumaru Shutara to terminate the existence of the Schutzstaffels, as she possessed a thousand arms. In the closing episode of Bleach TYBW, Oetsu, Kirinji, and Hikifune tragically resorted to slashing their own throats as a means to end their own lives.
Senjumaru's Bankai (Image via Pierrot)
Senjumaru proceeded to divulge that even the slightest utilization of their abilities would elicit seismic disturbances within the heavens and earth across the three realms. To harness these immense powers, the members of Squad Zero had interconnected their lives and safeguarded their authentic blades through sealing.
Consequently, in return for sacrificing three lives, the covenant seal had been shattered. Essentially, Senjumaru Shutara had unlocked her concealed capabilities. The climactic conclusion of Bleach TYBW witnessed Senjumaru Shutara activating her Bankai: Shatatsu Karagara Shigaraminotsuji.
Senjumaru's Bankai was a sight to behold, causing tremors throughout the realms, including the Human World. Composed entirely of fabrics, it captivated fans with its mesmerizing display. To counter the Schutzstaffel, the Great Weave Guard skillfully wove distinctive fabrics, overpowering their opponents.
Starting from Lille Barro, she captivated him with her mesmerizing creation, Abundant Blooming Eyes. She proceeded to confront Askin Nakk le Vaar, impaling him with her formidable Armor of Blade Steel. Senjumaru's innovative fabrics then unleashed a treacherous black quicksand, submerging Pernida into oblivion.
The Freezing Bed Linens were utilized by her to freeze Gerald Valkyre, resulting in his death. Jugram was also unable to counter her one-of-a-kind Bankai, which engulfed him in flames. Lastly, Uryu Ishida fell victim to her Bankai, granting him a glimpse of the afterlife.
Senjumaru Shutara's revelation of her Bankai in Bleach TYBW was a remarkable moment that solidified Squad Zero's reputation as the strongest. Despite their immense power, the members of Squad Zero had to restrain themselves so as not to disrupt the balance across all realms.
However, in Bleach TYBW, fans were able to catch a glimpse of the immense capabilities of Squad Zero. They wholeheartedly agreed with Kirio Hikifune's comment, expressing their satisfaction with the level of engagement in a Squad Zero battle. Make sure to stay updated with the latest anime news and manga developments as we move forward into 2023.