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Bleach #61
Bleach, Vol. 61: The Last 9 Days
La grande ombra dei quincy si estende sulla Soul Society, mentre Ichigo percorre il cammino necessario a riavere la propria zanpakuto!
192 pages, Paperback
First published December 4, 2013
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October 28, 2024
"Ichigo. You've grown strong. I was blessed to get to watch your growth right beside you. There is no greater joy. I am content."
I've already expressed my opinion about THE BLADE IS ME plot twist in my review of the previous volume, so please don't be angry that I'm repeating myself. I have to say it once again - this plot twist is INSANE and it has to be one of the greatest and mind-blowing anime/manga plot twists of all time. I'm still in shock. But also relived.
"I don't understand! Are you my enemy?! Are you my friend?! Was everything you said to me a lie?! Which is it?!" [Ichigo]
Do you know the feeling of dread that overwhelms you when you (accidentally or not) find out that an character that you knew and loved is not someone you thought he is? When you thought that he was an ally, but everything about him happens to be lie? You ends up worrying what will happen in the future - with your hero and the character you thought it's his friend. This is how I have felt all this time. THE BLADE IS ME plot twist was something that bothered me immensely, because: 1) I wasn't sure if it's real or not, and 2) I wasn't sure what it actually meant (and what the repercussions of it are). My mind had been in chaos, full of uneasy and dark thoughts, thinking about the worst scenarios. So when I realized what THE BLADE IS ME actually is and what it means - when I realized that I was wrong - made me sigh in relief. I will not get into a deeper monologue about it, because of spoilers. All I will say is that, despite the incredibly bad situation happening right now in the BLEACH world (we are at the war, remember?), I'm happy.
"I won't ask for your help anymore. I won't tell you to stay out of my way either. Nor will I ask you guys to fight with me. I will fight on my own. Thank you. [Spoiler]. You are me."
Ichigo's at peace now, so I'm at peace now. But THE BLADE IS ME chapters weren't easy to get through. In the contrary. It left me so emotional that I had to pause for quite a while to get myself in check. If you know me, you know that I'm an sensitive person. When I get a story focused on things like the friendships/camaraderie, the master/student, the family (also: found family) - all the warmness and preciousness and beautifulness of the people and their world - you bet I widely smile or cry my eyes out (or both at the same time). BLEACH is giving me this. You might read it and end up being disappointed because it's not a story based on explosive fights nor it has a broad worldbuilding. It's a fictional story driven by its characters and their bonds. You might complain - feel free to do so - but it's a perfect story for me.
"The confined Quincy King regains his pulse after 900 years. His mind after 90 years. His strength after 9 years. And the world in 9 days." [Yhwach]
As much as I would like it to, but this volume's focus is not put on 'the blade is me' plot twist. Most of the chapters are dedicated to the Sternritters' second attack on the Soul Society. Some of the already known Sternritters show up (to this moment most of them known by their appearance, not by their names) and once again break havoc in their enemies' home. And I, once again, have to thank and congratulate the author for not only keeping a great balance between the fun and not-so-fun/serious stuff, but mostly for keeping the brilliant high level of the tension in every chapter (mostly in the ones that involve battles). Always when you think that your hero had found a way to keep on being strong, a way to keep on fighting despite a clear disadvantage and the enemy will lose, a twist happens that keeps you in the bubble of anxiety for your favorites' wellbeing. There are moments when you can laugh and take a breath of relief and peace, but then BOOM, an attack happens, everything's in havoc, and, despite all the preparations, things do not look good. Do we have any chance of winning? Will our home be destroyed - and our people killed? Should we keep on fighting or just fall down and beg for mercy? Would these bloodthirsty monsters even listen? We are on a war. Anything can happen.
"You know, I was under the impression that you were His Majesty's successor. Most of the Ritters would have no complaints if you were the choice. And yet you have no problem with this?"
"His Majesty has made his decision. There is no reason for me to question it."
"Tch... You've become a coward. What a letdown."
Before I will end my review, I will talk a little bit about another interesting thing that happened in Volume 61. After following the Soul Reapers all this time, we finally got a closure to the Sternritters' side. Not only we managed to learn the names of all the Sternritters that were shown before (like the guy who stolen Hitsugaya's Bankai - Cang Du and a WWE Quincy who attacked Renji - his name is, I'm not kidding, Mask De Masculine), we also saw their relations and the atmosphere that rules in the kingdom of Wandenreich. If you felt the Third Reich's vibes from their previous scenes, you will feel it even stronger now. Yhwach is unquestionably the führer (but it's not named like that - all Sternritters names him as "His Majesty") while all of his minions are the soldiers that he's using in his war against the Soul Society. Everyone definitely have their reasons to fight by Yhwach's side, but it looks like his decisions aren't as easily and widely accepted as it would seem. This is shown by the Bazz-B/Jugram scene after Yhwach's big announcement. Jugram is not shaken up by His Majesty's words, but Bazz-B clearly is. After their interaction you might think that Bazz-B is looking for his own interests - his opportunity for a promotion (or just looking for an opening to start a fight and Jugram appears as a perfect opponent), but it feels like there is actually much more to this than that. You might think that Bazz-B is trying to cut Jugram off and find his place on Yhwach's side, but I feel like all he did was trying to shake Jugram off and get him to fight, but not against himself, but against the new successor (guess who it is, lol). Could they have been friends or closer allies at some point (from the time that none of them knew Yhwach)?? If so, what happened? Is Yhwach's presence like a wall between them? I never really cared about the Sternritters' side of the war, but after seeing that particular scene for the second time, I might change my mind. I hope to find some depth in these characters and their relationships (but not to the point that I would have to choose between one side and another).
Anyways, I'm jumping to the next volume right away! We just started the second Quincy attack and things certainly do not look good for our beloved heroes (especially for the one that got brutally pierced on the end of the book...). Can they stand strong until Rukia, Renji, Byakuya, and especially Ichigo, appear? We will see what will happen in the next volume! :)
Some of things I need to talk about: (as usual, look out, because some spoilers might appear here)
~ Ichigo's desperate face expression in chapter one killed me 😭
~ Zangetsu's change of heart because of Ichigo's influence - TEARS OF PAIN 😭
~ "it was no more than a fragment of your true power" - WHAT THE HELL?!????!!! 🤯
~ Ichigo taking his swords out of the fire - how fitting, if you consider the fact that his father's sword is a fire type one!
~ My reaction of seeing Ichigo's two swords:
first: hahaha, he has two swords now, I'm so dumb for not realizing it sooner 😆😆😆😆😆
second: he has two swords now, two because there are two of them, omg, my hearttttt 😭😭😭😭😭
(Kyoraku and Ukitake definitely cheering somewhere from the sidelines knowing that they just found a third person to their club of two swords)
~ The image of White and Zangetsu both standing above Ichigo is the highlight of the whole volume for me.
~ The Uryuu case part 1 - I am still bewildered about him being now on the Quincy side. I know that he's a Quincy and because of that reason alone he would fit there well, but he's not a person who had ever cared about the revenge on the Soul Reapers. All he cared for was his grandpa who got killed by Mayuri - and Uryuu got his revenge on him. Why did he choose Yhwach's side then? Especially knowing full well that Ichigo - his best friend - will fight on the Soul Reapers' side which means that they would have to clash against each other. And does he know how his mother died? Because I'm pretty sure he knows - Ryouken doesn't seem like a person who would hide such a thing from his son. If he knows, why did he side with her killer?
~ The Uryuu case part 2 - why did Yhwach said that Uryuu has some kind of power that exceeds his own? What does that mean? And why did Yhwach choose him as his successor? Doesn't he know who his parents are? What are his plans - is he the BLEACH's version of Sukuna while Uryuu is like Megumi?? I am so confused.
~ For me Giselle (and As Nödt) will always be the most disgusting Quincies (and the most disgusting BLEACH characters in general), but I have to say that Bambietta is not far behind. I can't believe that this woman kills men for "special relief" and the only reason why her minions complain is because "she dirties the floor". Yuck 🤢
~ Who was the creep who was listening to Bazz-B's and Jugram's conversation??
~ Who is Isfied and why are her eyes completely black?!
~ Why did Askin call Jugram "The Next Emperor"?!
~ How funny that we got the Orihime/Chad training scene without any of the actual training ONCE AGAIN
~ I'm so happy that Byakuya is awake!! ☺️
~ The Shinji/Hiyori phone call was hilarious and I was so happy to see them again, but what the hell did they mean by fixing the distortion between the world of the living and the Soul Society??????
~ I don't understand why we got a scene of Ichigo's friends receiving soul tickets from Kyoraku (to visit Ichigo), but not his family. Kyoraku came to them personally, but he only sent the tickets to Ichigo's family. This is a choice that I am having trouble accepting.
~ What is Ukitake up to?? Should I worry??
~ What are Mayuri and Nemu even wearing? They are literally glowing! 😂
~ When I watched the anime, I hadn't realized that the girl that Omaeda was trying to protect was his sister. I always thought of Omaeda as a coward and a poor comedy relief, but he really impressed me in his scenes against BG9.
~ MATSUMOTO IS SO BEAUTIFUL!! 🤩
~ Bazz-B is saying that he had stopped Yamamoto's flames. How convenient for him that Yama cannot confirm nor deny it anymore.
~ I wish I could take Hitsugaya out of the Soul Society - my boy will get through so much and I don't want to see it... 😥
I've already expressed my opinion about THE BLADE IS ME plot twist in my review of the previous volume, so please don't be angry that I'm repeating myself. I have to say it once again - this plot twist is INSANE and it has to be one of the greatest and mind-blowing anime/manga plot twists of all time. I'm still in shock. But also relived.
"I don't understand! Are you my enemy?! Are you my friend?! Was everything you said to me a lie?! Which is it?!" [Ichigo]
Do you know the feeling of dread that overwhelms you when you (accidentally or not) find out that an character that you knew and loved is not someone you thought he is? When you thought that he was an ally, but everything about him happens to be lie? You ends up worrying what will happen in the future - with your hero and the character you thought it's his friend. This is how I have felt all this time. THE BLADE IS ME plot twist was something that bothered me immensely, because: 1) I wasn't sure if it's real or not, and 2) I wasn't sure what it actually meant (and what the repercussions of it are). My mind had been in chaos, full of uneasy and dark thoughts, thinking about the worst scenarios. So when I realized what THE BLADE IS ME actually is and what it means - when I realized that I was wrong - made me sigh in relief. I will not get into a deeper monologue about it, because of spoilers. All I will say is that, despite the incredibly bad situation happening right now in the BLEACH world (we are at the war, remember?), I'm happy.
"I won't ask for your help anymore. I won't tell you to stay out of my way either. Nor will I ask you guys to fight with me. I will fight on my own. Thank you. [Spoiler]. You are me."
Ichigo's at peace now, so I'm at peace now. But THE BLADE IS ME chapters weren't easy to get through. In the contrary. It left me so emotional that I had to pause for quite a while to get myself in check. If you know me, you know that I'm an sensitive person. When I get a story focused on things like the friendships/camaraderie, the master/student, the family (also: found family) - all the warmness and preciousness and beautifulness of the people and their world - you bet I widely smile or cry my eyes out (or both at the same time). BLEACH is giving me this. You might read it and end up being disappointed because it's not a story based on explosive fights nor it has a broad worldbuilding. It's a fictional story driven by its characters and their bonds. You might complain - feel free to do so - but it's a perfect story for me.
"The confined Quincy King regains his pulse after 900 years. His mind after 90 years. His strength after 9 years. And the world in 9 days." [Yhwach]
As much as I would like it to, but this volume's focus is not put on 'the blade is me' plot twist. Most of the chapters are dedicated to the Sternritters' second attack on the Soul Society. Some of the already known Sternritters show up (to this moment most of them known by their appearance, not by their names) and once again break havoc in their enemies' home. And I, once again, have to thank and congratulate the author for not only keeping a great balance between the fun and not-so-fun/serious stuff, but mostly for keeping the brilliant high level of the tension in every chapter (mostly in the ones that involve battles). Always when you think that your hero had found a way to keep on being strong, a way to keep on fighting despite a clear disadvantage and the enemy will lose, a twist happens that keeps you in the bubble of anxiety for your favorites' wellbeing. There are moments when you can laugh and take a breath of relief and peace, but then BOOM, an attack happens, everything's in havoc, and, despite all the preparations, things do not look good. Do we have any chance of winning? Will our home be destroyed - and our people killed? Should we keep on fighting or just fall down and beg for mercy? Would these bloodthirsty monsters even listen? We are on a war. Anything can happen.
"You know, I was under the impression that you were His Majesty's successor. Most of the Ritters would have no complaints if you were the choice. And yet you have no problem with this?"
"His Majesty has made his decision. There is no reason for me to question it."
"Tch... You've become a coward. What a letdown."
Before I will end my review, I will talk a little bit about another interesting thing that happened in Volume 61. After following the Soul Reapers all this time, we finally got a closure to the Sternritters' side. Not only we managed to learn the names of all the Sternritters that were shown before (like the guy who stolen Hitsugaya's Bankai - Cang Du and a WWE Quincy who attacked Renji - his name is, I'm not kidding, Mask De Masculine), we also saw their relations and the atmosphere that rules in the kingdom of Wandenreich. If you felt the Third Reich's vibes from their previous scenes, you will feel it even stronger now. Yhwach is unquestionably the führer (but it's not named like that - all Sternritters names him as "His Majesty") while all of his minions are the soldiers that he's using in his war against the Soul Society. Everyone definitely have their reasons to fight by Yhwach's side, but it looks like his decisions aren't as easily and widely accepted as it would seem. This is shown by the Bazz-B/Jugram scene after Yhwach's big announcement. Jugram is not shaken up by His Majesty's words, but Bazz-B clearly is. After their interaction you might think that Bazz-B is looking for his own interests - his opportunity for a promotion (or just looking for an opening to start a fight and Jugram appears as a perfect opponent), but it feels like there is actually much more to this than that. You might think that Bazz-B is trying to cut Jugram off and find his place on Yhwach's side, but I feel like all he did was trying to shake Jugram off and get him to fight, but not against himself, but against the new successor (guess who it is, lol). Could they have been friends or closer allies at some point (from the time that none of them knew Yhwach)?? If so, what happened? Is Yhwach's presence like a wall between them? I never really cared about the Sternritters' side of the war, but after seeing that particular scene for the second time, I might change my mind. I hope to find some depth in these characters and their relationships (but not to the point that I would have to choose between one side and another).
Anyways, I'm jumping to the next volume right away! We just started the second Quincy attack and things certainly do not look good for our beloved heroes (especially for the one that got brutally pierced on the end of the book...). Can they stand strong until Rukia, Renji, Byakuya, and especially Ichigo, appear? We will see what will happen in the next volume! :)
Some of things I need to talk about: (as usual, look out, because some spoilers might appear here)
~ Ichigo's desperate face expression in chapter one killed me 😭
~ Zangetsu's change of heart because of Ichigo's influence - TEARS OF PAIN 😭
~ "it was no more than a fragment of your true power" - WHAT THE HELL?!????!!! 🤯
~ Ichigo taking his swords out of the fire - how fitting, if you consider the fact that his father's sword is a fire type one!
~ My reaction of seeing Ichigo's two swords:
first: hahaha, he has two swords now, I'm so dumb for not realizing it sooner 😆😆😆😆😆
second: he has two swords now, two because there are two of them, omg, my hearttttt 😭😭😭😭😭
(Kyoraku and Ukitake definitely cheering somewhere from the sidelines knowing that they just found a third person to their club of two swords)
~ The image of White and Zangetsu both standing above Ichigo is the highlight of the whole volume for me.
~ The Uryuu case part 1 - I am still bewildered about him being now on the Quincy side. I know that he's a Quincy and because of that reason alone he would fit there well, but he's not a person who had ever cared about the revenge on the Soul Reapers. All he cared for was his grandpa who got killed by Mayuri - and Uryuu got his revenge on him. Why did he choose Yhwach's side then? Especially knowing full well that Ichigo - his best friend - will fight on the Soul Reapers' side which means that they would have to clash against each other. And does he know how his mother died? Because I'm pretty sure he knows - Ryouken doesn't seem like a person who would hide such a thing from his son. If he knows, why did he side with her killer?
~ The Uryuu case part 2 - why did Yhwach said that Uryuu has some kind of power that exceeds his own? What does that mean? And why did Yhwach choose him as his successor? Doesn't he know who his parents are? What are his plans - is he the BLEACH's version of Sukuna while Uryuu is like Megumi?? I am so confused.
~ For me Giselle (and As Nödt) will always be the most disgusting Quincies (and the most disgusting BLEACH characters in general), but I have to say that Bambietta is not far behind. I can't believe that this woman kills men for "special relief" and the only reason why her minions complain is because "she dirties the floor". Yuck 🤢
~ Who was the creep who was listening to Bazz-B's and Jugram's conversation??
~ Who is Isfied and why are her eyes completely black?!
~ Why did Askin call Jugram "The Next Emperor"?!
~ How funny that we got the Orihime/Chad training scene without any of the actual training ONCE AGAIN
~ I'm so happy that Byakuya is awake!! ☺️
~ The Shinji/Hiyori phone call was hilarious and I was so happy to see them again, but what the hell did they mean by fixing the distortion between the world of the living and the Soul Society??????
~ I don't understand why we got a scene of Ichigo's friends receiving soul tickets from Kyoraku (to visit Ichigo), but not his family. Kyoraku came to them personally, but he only sent the tickets to Ichigo's family. This is a choice that I am having trouble accepting.
~ What is Ukitake up to?? Should I worry??
~ What are Mayuri and Nemu even wearing? They are literally glowing! 😂
~ When I watched the anime, I hadn't realized that the girl that Omaeda was trying to protect was his sister. I always thought of Omaeda as a coward and a poor comedy relief, but he really impressed me in his scenes against BG9.
~ MATSUMOTO IS SO BEAUTIFUL!! 🤩
~ Bazz-B is saying that he had stopped Yamamoto's flames. How convenient for him that Yama cannot confirm nor deny it anymore.
~ I wish I could take Hitsugaya out of the Soul Society - my boy will get through so much and I don't want to see it... 😥
June 8, 2020
Now that Ichigo has discovered the true nature of his Getsuga Tenchou and wishes to outdo himself once again, he finally gains his new fighting form with a new weapon, one that I am not too enthusiastic about. It remains to be seen how mangaka Tite Kubo plans on using them in the upcoming fighting sequences.
The rest of the story arc is focused on Uryu and his stance regarding these new invaders as well as a teaser to another invasion that features a couple of battles where certain Captains showcase their new abilities. Unsurprisingly, they all went forward with the same mentality follow their previous defeat: no bankai, no problem.
Yours truly,
Lashaan | Blogger and Book Reviewer
Official blog: https://bookidote.com/
The rest of the story arc is focused on Uryu and his stance regarding these new invaders as well as a teaser to another invasion that features a couple of battles where certain Captains showcase their new abilities. Unsurprisingly, they all went forward with the same mentality follow their previous defeat: no bankai, no problem.
Yours truly,
Lashaan | Blogger and Book Reviewer
Official blog: https://bookidote.com/
December 19, 2025
3.5/5
Interesting, but a step down from the previous volume.
Interesting, but a step down from the previous volume.
July 13, 2025
I got the 2 characters confused before, so this was a nice “aaaaaaah…!” moment. I love that we’re getting so many explanations and context for previous volumes now
November 8, 2022
I am so worried for the captains! It’s great seeing them fight without their bankais but honestly the enemy is TERRIFYING! Evil soul nazis!
August 29, 2016
The explanation here was a little far fetched but I'll roll with it. Art was amazing as always.
December 7, 2020
The battle is just getting started, as the Quincy now come in full force and start invading Soul Society and different captains engage different opponents, the arc is reaching a great point and we have such great battles like Toshirou fighting Bazz-B aka The Heat and all and seems like he has found a new way to beat him. And then Soi-Fon is fighting some weird Machine Quincy and she uses her Wind Shunkou to beat hum but turns out its not the case and they are just getting started. Meanwhile some other place, Ichigo has formed his own blade and in these 9 days, the big Quincy-Shinigami war winner will be decided! Its an epic start to the biggest story in Bleach and the art and writing and everything is just so epic!
February 3, 2024
I really am reading these too fast lol
February 2, 2025
STUNNING BUT ALSO 😭
January 6, 2026
madoo sti quincy demme
December 31, 2020
Reviewed on Lili Lost in a Book
Major spoiler alert for last volume! Proceed with caution 😉
The last volume was absolute insanity! But basically Zangetsu is not Zangetsu. He was actually Yhwach and he is the source of Ichigo’s power... his Quincy power. And apparently this somehow means that Ichigo is not a Soul Reaper, which I'm not sure how that works? But anyway, Yhwach sucks and I don’t like him. And speaking of Ichigo’s former Zanpakuto, his new one is pretty cool!
Speaking of Quincies, Uruyu... What the heck is he doing?! I am still in shock! Why Uruyu, why? 😭
As for the other characters, we actually drop in on Ichigo’s friends back in the world of the living and see what they’re up to. We also see a bit of Renji and Rukia training, Mayuri and his crazy outfits...
What IS he wearing, indeed 😂
We also catch up with one of my favorite duos, Rangiku and Toshiro! They get in on the action and I loved it! Earlier in the story Toshiro had lost his Bankai, but he and Rangiku worked together in this volume and you guys, it was SO awesome! The things they did... it was very smart, very cool. They make such a great team! Soi Fon also kicks some ass, which was also awesome. She’s quite a badass. I really liked her.
So besides Ichigo and his revelations and Uruyu and his revelations, we obviously get quite a bit of action from the Quincies. They attack and it turns out they were hiding in the least expected place, waiting for the right time to strike. It was absolutely insane! And even though the Reapers were caught off guard, the Quincies are idiots if they think they can defeat the Soul Reapers just because they stole their Bankai. They may have no Bankai, but they’ll find other ways to fight. Like the awesome fight with Rangiku and Toshiro that I mentioned earlier! It was just so good! I can’t get over it!
One thing about this volume is that it introduced a lot of characters at once and I had a hard time keeping them all straight. It was too much for my brain to keep track of 🤯 But otherwise I enjoyed it! It did leave us with another cliffhanger ending, one involving one of my favorite characters in a perilous situation and I am not okay! 😭 He better be okay in the next volume!
Major spoiler alert for last volume! Proceed with caution 😉
The last volume was absolute insanity! But basically Zangetsu is not Zangetsu. He was actually Yhwach and he is the source of Ichigo’s power... his Quincy power. And apparently this somehow means that Ichigo is not a Soul Reaper, which I'm not sure how that works? But anyway, Yhwach sucks and I don’t like him. And speaking of Ichigo’s former Zanpakuto, his new one is pretty cool!
Speaking of Quincies, Uruyu... What the heck is he doing?! I am still in shock! Why Uruyu, why? 😭
As for the other characters, we actually drop in on Ichigo’s friends back in the world of the living and see what they’re up to. We also see a bit of Renji and Rukia training, Mayuri and his crazy outfits...
What IS he wearing, indeed 😂
We also catch up with one of my favorite duos, Rangiku and Toshiro! They get in on the action and I loved it! Earlier in the story Toshiro had lost his Bankai, but he and Rangiku worked together in this volume and you guys, it was SO awesome! The things they did... it was very smart, very cool. They make such a great team! Soi Fon also kicks some ass, which was also awesome. She’s quite a badass. I really liked her.
So besides Ichigo and his revelations and Uruyu and his revelations, we obviously get quite a bit of action from the Quincies. They attack and it turns out they were hiding in the least expected place, waiting for the right time to strike. It was absolutely insane! And even though the Reapers were caught off guard, the Quincies are idiots if they think they can defeat the Soul Reapers just because they stole their Bankai. They may have no Bankai, but they’ll find other ways to fight. Like the awesome fight with Rangiku and Toshiro that I mentioned earlier! It was just so good! I can’t get over it!
One thing about this volume is that it introduced a lot of characters at once and I had a hard time keeping them all straight. It was too much for my brain to keep track of 🤯 But otherwise I enjoyed it! It did leave us with another cliffhanger ending, one involving one of my favorite characters in a perilous situation and I am not okay! 😭 He better be okay in the next volume!
January 29, 2023
I'm going to miss the old man...
March 11, 2023
Finally finished the first 1/4 that's been animated, was so sick 2 view it through panels, n now reading manga only shit makes me EVEN MORE HYPE FOR THE REST OF THE ANIME, i was wondering if the stern ritter wld be good bad guys but this volume is making me like em, even if the structure of the fight beats r prty similar to arrancar arc
February 12, 2015
2.75*
-------------------
As someone who used to love this manga series, I must say that I was seriously UNimpressed with this volume. If it doesn't get any better soon, I just might stop reading this series.
-------------------
As someone who used to love this manga series, I must say that I was seriously UNimpressed with this volume. If it doesn't get any better soon, I just might stop reading this series.
October 24, 2025
TBA
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2020
Given that Manga, and especially Shonen is split up into bigger arcs as composed to volumes I will be analyzing and reviewing this by Arc. I also reread this manga over the span of 2 months, some days reading as much as 100 chapters a day. It would be quite tedious for me to review each 7-8 chapter volume. So this will be copy and pasted throughout all of the 72 manga volumes. That being said, if you're looking at this without having viewed the series...spoiler warning. I don't recap anything, but I also mention things that happen. If you want me to answer the question "Should I pick this up?" Yes. Even if you stop at the end of the Soul Society Arc. It's worth it.
Karakura Town Arc - Chapters 1-56 - Rating: 7/10
(The official page lumps this in with the Soul Society Arc however I feel as if they are two very separate arcs with two very separate themes)
- A fun introduction.
-An interesting premise on the idea of ghosts and demons (Hollows)
-Does a good job of introducing the characters and I especially enjoyed the love for characters like Chad, Orihime and Uryu as these characters would later lose more and more spotlight as the series went on.
-It is a bit of a monster of the week. When it works, like with Chad's introduction story. It works. But Characters like Don Kanonji felt superficial and very gimmicky. Which, fair. I didn't enjoy them as much.
Soul Society Arc - Chapters 57-182 - Rating: 10/10
-The height of Bleach
-Establishes an afterlife seemingly perfectly. Later on revealed to be full of plot holes and never fleshed out but hey! That's not an issue in THIS arc. The fights are top tier, the themes of Ichigo owing a life debt to Rukia and his passion and determination to rise above literally God's army is inspiring and to this day is why I love Ichigo so much. He doesn't have some grandiose plan. He doesn't have a major goal to accomplish. He is a protector by heart, losing his mother has made him sour to failing to protect those he cares about and he'll do anything in his power never to feel that helpless again. Very powerful stuff.
-The twist near the end of this arc is revolutionary and would make waves for the next 200 chapters onward. A perfect ending and set up for the forthcoming arc.
-The only issues I have for this arc would be Ichigo's lightning speed progression. The guy goes from being able to barely defeat a third seat to besting multiple captains in roughly 100 or less chapters. I get that that is the point and him defeating captains was more of a struck of luck, but progression and pacing wise it feels very unearned and a factor of "for the plot he needed to be this strong" It only seems as fast as it is because Ichigo's progression slows drastically down for the rest of the story moving foreword so it's only now that I make that criticism.
-Also, and this will be an issue in most Shonen. There are 13 Captains with 13 Vice Captains and seats that branch all the way to 10 I believe? Regardless, there's a fudge ton of characters that are introduced here and it can get a little jarring at times. Luckily, Kubo does a great job at making their designs and characters unique despite such a large cast.
Hueco Mundo Arc - Chapters 183-423 - Rating 7/10
-This is another arc where personally I would split it up into two separate arcs. But for the sake of this review I will simply refer to the first half of the arc and the later half of the arc. First Half 9/10. Second Half. 5/10.
-The first half of this arc is a great continuation of the last. Ichigo now struggles with his inner demons and it affects his ability to protect the ones he loves. We are also introduced to a deadly unknown new villains. The Arrancars/Espada to this day remain one of my favorite villain factions in all of manga enemies.
-Just so you're aware I would say the first half of this arc ends right around the point of Ichigo vs Grimmjow. Grimmjow is one of the first Arrancar that Ichigo faces. And he's also one of two Espada that he faces three times. The conclusion of that fight shows Ichigo conquering his inner demons. Where Grimmjow is very much fighting to establish himself. Grimmjow has to fight Ichigo to prove to his fallen comrades that he is as good as he says he is. He doesn't care about Aizen, he doesn't care about the rest of the Espada. It is very personal for him. For Ichigo, Orohime is within his grasp of saving and he views this as his "final" battle. It's my favorite fight in all of Bleach.
-However, this is where things start to take a bit of dip in quality in my opinion. We had a goal and we were striving towards that goal. Each character of the original cast coming to repay the debt they made to their friend who had risked her life to save them in the Soul society arc. But somewhere along the way it seems we just had a fighter fest. Captains would face enemies with no themes or character revelations. The Espadas got a little light but nothing that made their fights compelling. You almost just feel bad for the Espada as they were monsters turned into a military force by an unstoppable tyrant. But even that wasn't enough to make half of the fights interesting. Now, that's with knowing the outcome. These fights played little importance in the larger scheme of things. Where at least in the Hueco Mundo fights each match up had the protagonists striving for a goal. Rukia to defeat Aaroneiro to free her former superiors soul. Byakuya to defend Rukia. Renji and Uryu teamwork. Nel to protect Ichigo and get revenge on Nnoitra. Whereas Stark fought Kyoraku.....cause.....and Hitsugaya fought Halibel because Water vs Ice would be cool.
-This leaves me to the end. I won't say it wasn't satisfying that Ichigo was able to defeat Aizen. And yes, I do feel like his new power was earned. 3 months of training. But this was clearly a last minute decision to save Aizen for a later date and the show must go on. I do feel like it wasn't as satisfying as 200+ chapter buildup needed to be.
The Fullbring Arc - Chapters 424-479 - Rating: 8/10
-A very underrated arc. And yes, I acknowledge that rating wise I think the Fullbring arc is superior to the Hueco Mundo arc. That is mostly true. Though I like the first half of the Hueco Mundo Arc more than the Fullbring arc. The end of the HM arc really brought it down for me. The Fullbring Arc is much more concise and is actually the shortest arc in the series and works as a glorified Ichigo getting his powers back arc. But that doesn't mean its bad.
-When I read it originally back when it was coming out in 2010. (Cause I'm Old) It wasn't phenomenal. In fact, I hated it. But wouldn't you? It took just short of a year to get to the point that we were at. But upon rereading it, it gave much deserved love to the characters who hadn't been shown love in quite some time. The original cast. It was a very character focused arc. Ichigo never seemed more human. And despite me hating it before for taking so long, reading weekly can sometimes hurt these mystery based arcs. The twist is heavily foreshadowed and I really appreciated it.
-That being said, the end was super rushed. This was a big bummer for me. The villains this time around were humans. And the ones who had the most exposure and relations with these characters were the original cast who again....were humans. So to have the soul reapers, who have no connection to the fullbringers show up and basically no diff most of the fullbringers felt very forced and fanservicey to me. This very well could have not been Kubo's call. As the community was very vocal about their dislike for this arc as it was going on. But I appreciate it now much more as I appreciate character and story over big sword fights. Lol.
The Thousand Year Blood War Arc - Chapters 424-689 - Rating: 5/10
-And we're finally here. The final and largest arc within the Bleach story. And man...does it not stick the landing.
-That being said, this arc has phenomenal moments. Kenpachi's Shikai and Bankai. Ichigo's double swords. Renji's true Bankai. Rukia's Bankai. And many more. However, they are put together against the most break neck speed arc that I have ever read. Kubo was very ambitious when he introduced 26 new villains. However, most of them got barely any screen time and a lot of them even got off screened by higher level captains. This was unlike the Espada who each got a full double page spread for their Resurrections.
-Yhwach himself was a phenomenal villain but was dealt with swiftly and imo dirty. They did him dirty.
-There was just something off. The mood changed and it was very apparent. The villains had random powers instead of the powers reflecting their personalities or needs. The finale felt so underwhelming.
-Ichigo gets to be the strongest he's ever been....but he doesn't defeat a single person besides the main villain despite being in several fights.
-It isn't a good arc. In fact, I would say it's the worst. Hopefully the anime does a better job with this already mammoth of a story. 260 chapters is no joke.
This gives the story of Bleach an Overall rating of 7.4/10. Which to me is above average. It has it's ups and downs. It's not perfect. But when it's high, it's peak shonen. But when it's low, it's very forgettable.
Karakura Town Arc - Chapters 1-56 - Rating: 7/10
(The official page lumps this in with the Soul Society Arc however I feel as if they are two very separate arcs with two very separate themes)
- A fun introduction.
-An interesting premise on the idea of ghosts and demons (Hollows)
-Does a good job of introducing the characters and I especially enjoyed the love for characters like Chad, Orihime and Uryu as these characters would later lose more and more spotlight as the series went on.
-It is a bit of a monster of the week. When it works, like with Chad's introduction story. It works. But Characters like Don Kanonji felt superficial and very gimmicky. Which, fair. I didn't enjoy them as much.
Soul Society Arc - Chapters 57-182 - Rating: 10/10
-The height of Bleach
-Establishes an afterlife seemingly perfectly. Later on revealed to be full of plot holes and never fleshed out but hey! That's not an issue in THIS arc. The fights are top tier, the themes of Ichigo owing a life debt to Rukia and his passion and determination to rise above literally God's army is inspiring and to this day is why I love Ichigo so much. He doesn't have some grandiose plan. He doesn't have a major goal to accomplish. He is a protector by heart, losing his mother has made him sour to failing to protect those he cares about and he'll do anything in his power never to feel that helpless again. Very powerful stuff.
-The twist near the end of this arc is revolutionary and would make waves for the next 200 chapters onward. A perfect ending and set up for the forthcoming arc.
-The only issues I have for this arc would be Ichigo's lightning speed progression. The guy goes from being able to barely defeat a third seat to besting multiple captains in roughly 100 or less chapters. I get that that is the point and him defeating captains was more of a struck of luck, but progression and pacing wise it feels very unearned and a factor of "for the plot he needed to be this strong" It only seems as fast as it is because Ichigo's progression slows drastically down for the rest of the story moving foreword so it's only now that I make that criticism.
-Also, and this will be an issue in most Shonen. There are 13 Captains with 13 Vice Captains and seats that branch all the way to 10 I believe? Regardless, there's a fudge ton of characters that are introduced here and it can get a little jarring at times. Luckily, Kubo does a great job at making their designs and characters unique despite such a large cast.
Hueco Mundo Arc - Chapters 183-423 - Rating 7/10
-This is another arc where personally I would split it up into two separate arcs. But for the sake of this review I will simply refer to the first half of the arc and the later half of the arc. First Half 9/10. Second Half. 5/10.
-The first half of this arc is a great continuation of the last. Ichigo now struggles with his inner demons and it affects his ability to protect the ones he loves. We are also introduced to a deadly unknown new villains. The Arrancars/Espada to this day remain one of my favorite villain factions in all of manga enemies.
-Just so you're aware I would say the first half of this arc ends right around the point of Ichigo vs Grimmjow. Grimmjow is one of the first Arrancar that Ichigo faces. And he's also one of two Espada that he faces three times. The conclusion of that fight shows Ichigo conquering his inner demons. Where Grimmjow is very much fighting to establish himself. Grimmjow has to fight Ichigo to prove to his fallen comrades that he is as good as he says he is. He doesn't care about Aizen, he doesn't care about the rest of the Espada. It is very personal for him. For Ichigo, Orohime is within his grasp of saving and he views this as his "final" battle. It's my favorite fight in all of Bleach.
-However, this is where things start to take a bit of dip in quality in my opinion. We had a goal and we were striving towards that goal. Each character of the original cast coming to repay the debt they made to their friend who had risked her life to save them in the Soul society arc. But somewhere along the way it seems we just had a fighter fest. Captains would face enemies with no themes or character revelations. The Espadas got a little light but nothing that made their fights compelling. You almost just feel bad for the Espada as they were monsters turned into a military force by an unstoppable tyrant. But even that wasn't enough to make half of the fights interesting. Now, that's with knowing the outcome. These fights played little importance in the larger scheme of things. Where at least in the Hueco Mundo fights each match up had the protagonists striving for a goal. Rukia to defeat Aaroneiro to free her former superiors soul. Byakuya to defend Rukia. Renji and Uryu teamwork. Nel to protect Ichigo and get revenge on Nnoitra. Whereas Stark fought Kyoraku.....cause.....and Hitsugaya fought Halibel because Water vs Ice would be cool.
-This leaves me to the end. I won't say it wasn't satisfying that Ichigo was able to defeat Aizen. And yes, I do feel like his new power was earned. 3 months of training. But this was clearly a last minute decision to save Aizen for a later date and the show must go on. I do feel like it wasn't as satisfying as 200+ chapter buildup needed to be.
The Fullbring Arc - Chapters 424-479 - Rating: 8/10
-A very underrated arc. And yes, I acknowledge that rating wise I think the Fullbring arc is superior to the Hueco Mundo arc. That is mostly true. Though I like the first half of the Hueco Mundo Arc more than the Fullbring arc. The end of the HM arc really brought it down for me. The Fullbring Arc is much more concise and is actually the shortest arc in the series and works as a glorified Ichigo getting his powers back arc. But that doesn't mean its bad.
-When I read it originally back when it was coming out in 2010. (Cause I'm Old) It wasn't phenomenal. In fact, I hated it. But wouldn't you? It took just short of a year to get to the point that we were at. But upon rereading it, it gave much deserved love to the characters who hadn't been shown love in quite some time. The original cast. It was a very character focused arc. Ichigo never seemed more human. And despite me hating it before for taking so long, reading weekly can sometimes hurt these mystery based arcs. The twist is heavily foreshadowed and I really appreciated it.
-That being said, the end was super rushed. This was a big bummer for me. The villains this time around were humans. And the ones who had the most exposure and relations with these characters were the original cast who again....were humans. So to have the soul reapers, who have no connection to the fullbringers show up and basically no diff most of the fullbringers felt very forced and fanservicey to me. This very well could have not been Kubo's call. As the community was very vocal about their dislike for this arc as it was going on. But I appreciate it now much more as I appreciate character and story over big sword fights. Lol.
The Thousand Year Blood War Arc - Chapters 424-689 - Rating: 5/10
-And we're finally here. The final and largest arc within the Bleach story. And man...does it not stick the landing.
-That being said, this arc has phenomenal moments. Kenpachi's Shikai and Bankai. Ichigo's double swords. Renji's true Bankai. Rukia's Bankai. And many more. However, they are put together against the most break neck speed arc that I have ever read. Kubo was very ambitious when he introduced 26 new villains. However, most of them got barely any screen time and a lot of them even got off screened by higher level captains. This was unlike the Espada who each got a full double page spread for their Resurrections.
-Yhwach himself was a phenomenal villain but was dealt with swiftly and imo dirty. They did him dirty.
-There was just something off. The mood changed and it was very apparent. The villains had random powers instead of the powers reflecting their personalities or needs. The finale felt so underwhelming.
-Ichigo gets to be the strongest he's ever been....but he doesn't defeat a single person besides the main villain despite being in several fights.
-It isn't a good arc. In fact, I would say it's the worst. Hopefully the anime does a better job with this already mammoth of a story. 260 chapters is no joke.
This gives the story of Bleach an Overall rating of 7.4/10. Which to me is above average. It has it's ups and downs. It's not perfect. But when it's high, it's peak shonen. But when it's low, it's very forgettable.
November 22, 2024
I mentioned in my review of vol. 55 that when the chapters for this arc were coming out years ago, I had been spoiled on the fact that Uryu betrays everyone, although I was never spoiled on why he did it, I think I might have tried to stay away from everywhere where people were talking about Bleach, it’s been a while so I don’t remember exactly. Here’s what I said in that review and I still stand by it.
I have a few theories about that that I wanted to put down somewhere so I decided to just type them on my review for the first volume of this arc. While I was spoiled on Uryu joining the enemy’s side and on the ending on this series, I wasn’t spoiled on why he switches sides, thankfully. I have reread and rewatched the series this year and it doesn’t seem possible to me that Uryu is like Sasuke Uchiha despite what people were saying a few episodes ago, it just doesn’t make sense considering how well they know each other and considering how good friends they are. Even in the beginning of volume 55 and in the full ringer arc we see that. Whereas Sasuke and Naruto were NOT nearly as good friends despite what Naruto likes to believe (I still think Shikamaru was a way better friend to Naruto and they also knew each other better but of course Naruto and the creator had to ignore him most of the time and act like Sasuke was better, ugh, yes I’m still salty about that). Uryu is NOT the same as wo-is-me emo boy Sasuke, he is a way better person and friend than Sasuke was throughout the series even though Ichigo and Uryu have only known each other for two or three years, (I know Sasuke changes by the end of the series but after his horrible behaviour throughout the series, I don’t care how much he changes, I do believe in second chances but it’s too late), which is why I believe that he maybe decided to infiltrate the enemy to find a weakness or maybe he already knows the leader’s weakness but didn’t tell anyone because he doesn’t think they would be able to act genuinely like he really betrayed them and maybe he doesn’t want to get them involved or maybe he got brainwashed or manipulated to join them. It has to be something like these, I just can’t believe that he would actually betray Ichigo, Chad and Orihime like that especially after everything they've been through. Like I said, he’s NOT Sasuke despite the stupid memes I’ve seen. If I’m wrong I will be very shocked and the series would not be my second favourite series anymore. Please nobody tell me if I’m right or wrong, I don’t want to know until I get to that volume or episode (whichever one I get to first).
I have a few theories about that that I wanted to put down somewhere so I decided to just type them on my review for the first volume of this arc. While I was spoiled on Uryu joining the enemy’s side and on the ending on this series, I wasn’t spoiled on why he switches sides, thankfully. I have reread and rewatched the series this year and it doesn’t seem possible to me that Uryu is like Sasuke Uchiha despite what people were saying a few episodes ago, it just doesn’t make sense considering how well they know each other and considering how good friends they are. Even in the beginning of volume 55 and in the full ringer arc we see that. Whereas Sasuke and Naruto were NOT nearly as good friends despite what Naruto likes to believe (I still think Shikamaru was a way better friend to Naruto and they also knew each other better but of course Naruto and the creator had to ignore him most of the time and act like Sasuke was better, ugh, yes I’m still salty about that). Uryu is NOT the same as wo-is-me emo boy Sasuke, he is a way better person and friend than Sasuke was throughout the series even though Ichigo and Uryu have only known each other for two or three years, (I know Sasuke changes by the end of the series but after his horrible behaviour throughout the series, I don’t care how much he changes, I do believe in second chances but it’s too late), which is why I believe that he maybe decided to infiltrate the enemy to find a weakness or maybe he already knows the leader’s weakness but didn’t tell anyone because he doesn’t think they would be able to act genuinely like he really betrayed them and maybe he doesn’t want to get them involved or maybe he got brainwashed or manipulated to join them. It has to be something like these, I just can’t believe that he would actually betray Ichigo, Chad and Orihime like that especially after everything they've been through. Like I said, he’s NOT Sasuke despite the stupid memes I’ve seen. If I’m wrong I will be very shocked and the series would not be my second favourite series anymore. Please nobody tell me if I’m right or wrong, I don’t want to know until I get to that volume or episode (whichever one I get to first).
January 8, 2026
4/5 (Review is for the series as a whole and does not contain spoilers)
Ichigo Kurosaki is a high school student who can see ghosts. When an evil spirit, called a hollow, attacks his family, he meets Rukia, a soul reaper tasked with fighting against hollows. But when Rukia is injured, Ichigo must make the decision to take over the role of soul reaper to help fight against hollows to save his hometown.
Bleach is a classic manga and one of the more popular options for those starting out in the genre/format. It features themes of friendship, growing up and changing, and never giving up. One of the most enjoyable elements of this series is watching the progression as the characters learn and evolve. Ichigo has a tendency to be really cocky, especially at the start of the series, but as time goes on and he learns more about the world he’s in, he changes and becomes more willing to listen to the advice given to him by other characters. His friends also continue to grow and progress along with him. Additionally, there is a change in the art style of the characters as the story progresses, which makes it easy to see how they have changed as they all get older. There were two elements about this series that I disliked. The first was that I felt the ending was a bit rushed, and there were some things that I was a bit confused about. However, I recognize that the author was sick and so that attributed to the way things ended. The other element that I disliked was the sheer number of characters in the series by the end. Many of the characters that I thought were dead or gone ended up coming back, and I had to try and remember who they all were. I definitely think I needed to make myself a character sheet with information about each character to help me remember everyone in the end. In terms of assessing age appropriateness for this series, I would say that it’s an okay series for middle school and up. A couple of considerations to keep in mind when deciding if it’s right for you: 1. There is some violence (which is common for shonen mangas), including some elements of body horror, but it’s not too bad. 2. There is no sexual content, although many of the women are drawn disproportionately (which is common in manga written by men). 3. The main character is fifteen years old at the start of the series and only gets older as it progresses. And 4. The themes are a bit mature in that they require some deeper level thinking in order to fully understand them all. Overall, I enjoyed this series for its interesting premise, and would definitely recommend it to those who enjoy the traditional shonen manga.
Ichigo Kurosaki is a high school student who can see ghosts. When an evil spirit, called a hollow, attacks his family, he meets Rukia, a soul reaper tasked with fighting against hollows. But when Rukia is injured, Ichigo must make the decision to take over the role of soul reaper to help fight against hollows to save his hometown.
Bleach is a classic manga and one of the more popular options for those starting out in the genre/format. It features themes of friendship, growing up and changing, and never giving up. One of the most enjoyable elements of this series is watching the progression as the characters learn and evolve. Ichigo has a tendency to be really cocky, especially at the start of the series, but as time goes on and he learns more about the world he’s in, he changes and becomes more willing to listen to the advice given to him by other characters. His friends also continue to grow and progress along with him. Additionally, there is a change in the art style of the characters as the story progresses, which makes it easy to see how they have changed as they all get older. There were two elements about this series that I disliked. The first was that I felt the ending was a bit rushed, and there were some things that I was a bit confused about. However, I recognize that the author was sick and so that attributed to the way things ended. The other element that I disliked was the sheer number of characters in the series by the end. Many of the characters that I thought were dead or gone ended up coming back, and I had to try and remember who they all were. I definitely think I needed to make myself a character sheet with information about each character to help me remember everyone in the end. In terms of assessing age appropriateness for this series, I would say that it’s an okay series for middle school and up. A couple of considerations to keep in mind when deciding if it’s right for you: 1. There is some violence (which is common for shonen mangas), including some elements of body horror, but it’s not too bad. 2. There is no sexual content, although many of the women are drawn disproportionately (which is common in manga written by men). 3. The main character is fifteen years old at the start of the series and only gets older as it progresses. And 4. The themes are a bit mature in that they require some deeper level thinking in order to fully understand them all. Overall, I enjoyed this series for its interesting premise, and would definitely recommend it to those who enjoy the traditional shonen manga.
May 23, 2022
Ichigo is confronted by a truth he isn’t sure how to handle – namely, that Zangetsu isn’t who he thought he was. He’s actually Yhwach, but he’s not Yhwach. That’s clear as mud. He’s neither friend nor foe, but he is the Quincy side of Ichigo. The two have a very heartfelt conversation, after which Ichigo receives his new blades.
Uryu arrives among the Quincies, who wonder who he is. Well, everyone but Yhwach, who announces, to everyone’s dismay, that Uryu is his successor. This is bound to upset the apple cart, at the same time painting a target on Uryu’s back by the jealous Quincies. Meanwhile, Chad, Orihime, Rukia, and Renji all continue with their training, while life goes on back in Karakura Town for Ichigo’s family, albeit without him, at least for now.
Ichigo’s friends unexpectedly encounter Shunsui, whom they recognize from the battle. He has come to tell them farewell from Ichigo. Not that something has happened, but he is looking ahead and anticipates that Ichigo might end up with such power that Shunsui cannot allow him to go back. But just in case that happens, he gives them passes so they can visit him in the Soul Society any time they want.
Back at the Seireitei, things are happening, some good, some not so much. Such as the Seireitei disappearing. And the discovery that the Quincies did not invade, they were there all along. On the plus side, some of the captains have learned to get beyond losing their bankai, but will their efforts be enough?
The plot certainly thickens with the arrival of Uryu (didn’t I say he’d have to come into this at some point? That point is here). I think there is more going on than simply naming him as Ywhach’s successor, both on his part and theirs. I have to hope they have misjudged Uryu and that Uryu will not go along with their agenda when push comes to shove. Only time will tell.
Although the captains have learned to fight harder without their bankai, that seems to have been accounted for, so what next? Ultimately, it all comes down to Ichigo, as always. Something possibly horrendous happens at the end of the volume. I have to wait until the next one to see how bad it really is.
On pins and needles until the next volume!
Uryu arrives among the Quincies, who wonder who he is. Well, everyone but Yhwach, who announces, to everyone’s dismay, that Uryu is his successor. This is bound to upset the apple cart, at the same time painting a target on Uryu’s back by the jealous Quincies. Meanwhile, Chad, Orihime, Rukia, and Renji all continue with their training, while life goes on back in Karakura Town for Ichigo’s family, albeit without him, at least for now.
Ichigo’s friends unexpectedly encounter Shunsui, whom they recognize from the battle. He has come to tell them farewell from Ichigo. Not that something has happened, but he is looking ahead and anticipates that Ichigo might end up with such power that Shunsui cannot allow him to go back. But just in case that happens, he gives them passes so they can visit him in the Soul Society any time they want.
Back at the Seireitei, things are happening, some good, some not so much. Such as the Seireitei disappearing. And the discovery that the Quincies did not invade, they were there all along. On the plus side, some of the captains have learned to get beyond losing their bankai, but will their efforts be enough?
The plot certainly thickens with the arrival of Uryu (didn’t I say he’d have to come into this at some point? That point is here). I think there is more going on than simply naming him as Ywhach’s successor, both on his part and theirs. I have to hope they have misjudged Uryu and that Uryu will not go along with their agenda when push comes to shove. Only time will tell.
Although the captains have learned to fight harder without their bankai, that seems to have been accounted for, so what next? Ultimately, it all comes down to Ichigo, as always. Something possibly horrendous happens at the end of the volume. I have to wait until the next one to see how bad it really is.
On pins and needles until the next volume!
November 11, 2019
Bleach, Vol. 61 continues where the previous tankōbon left off and contains the next ten chapters (541–550) of the on-going manga series.
In his inner world, Ichigo Kurosaki confronts Zangetsu as he confirms Ōetsu Nimaiya's revelation. Answering ambiguously, Zangetsu explains he has been honest save his name. Zangetsu also adds that it was Hollow Ichigo that always came to Ichigo's aid while admitting he initially tried to stop Ichigo from becoming a Soul Reaper to keep him safe from even himself.
However, handing over Ichigo's real Zanpakutō so he can use his full power, Zangetsu explains he later decided to help the youth after seeing his determination. Though Zangetsu fades, Ichigo still accepts him as "Zangetsu" alongside his hollow. Once Nimaiya finishes forging the new Zanpakutō, Ichigo finds it had become a new split Zangetsu.
As Soul Society prepare for war, the Sternritter are assembled before Yhwach as he announces Uryū Ishida will be his successor. Yhwach later confides to him that he survived the Auswählen which claimed his mother nine years ago. The Wandenreich later make their move and stage the final attack, which Yhwach explains to Uryū will be the end of the world.
Jugram Haschwalth confronts Shunsui Sōzōsuke Jirō Kyōraku and Nanao Ise while Mayuri Kurotsuchi engages Sternritter "D" Askin Nakk Le Vaar, Tōshirō Hitsugaya and Rangiku Matsumoto fight against Sternritter "H" Bazz-B, and Suì-Fēng and Marechiyo Yoshiayamenosuke Nikkōtarōemon Ōmaeda are battling Sternritter "K" BG9.
This tankōbon is written and illustrated by Tite Kubo. This first half of the tankōbon explores Ichigo Kurosaki getting his true Zanpakutō, as the Zangetsu was only parading as his Zanpakutō, when in actuality is the personification of his Quincy powers. The second half of the tankōbon, deals with the second invasion of the Sternritter on Soul Society with Yhwach proclaiming Uryū Ishida as his successor and has a heart-to-heart with him.
All in all, Bleach, Vol. 61 is a wonderful continuation to a series that seems intriguing and I cannot wait to read more.
In his inner world, Ichigo Kurosaki confronts Zangetsu as he confirms Ōetsu Nimaiya's revelation. Answering ambiguously, Zangetsu explains he has been honest save his name. Zangetsu also adds that it was Hollow Ichigo that always came to Ichigo's aid while admitting he initially tried to stop Ichigo from becoming a Soul Reaper to keep him safe from even himself.
However, handing over Ichigo's real Zanpakutō so he can use his full power, Zangetsu explains he later decided to help the youth after seeing his determination. Though Zangetsu fades, Ichigo still accepts him as "Zangetsu" alongside his hollow. Once Nimaiya finishes forging the new Zanpakutō, Ichigo finds it had become a new split Zangetsu.
As Soul Society prepare for war, the Sternritter are assembled before Yhwach as he announces Uryū Ishida will be his successor. Yhwach later confides to him that he survived the Auswählen which claimed his mother nine years ago. The Wandenreich later make their move and stage the final attack, which Yhwach explains to Uryū will be the end of the world.
Jugram Haschwalth confronts Shunsui Sōzōsuke Jirō Kyōraku and Nanao Ise while Mayuri Kurotsuchi engages Sternritter "D" Askin Nakk Le Vaar, Tōshirō Hitsugaya and Rangiku Matsumoto fight against Sternritter "H" Bazz-B, and Suì-Fēng and Marechiyo Yoshiayamenosuke Nikkōtarōemon Ōmaeda are battling Sternritter "K" BG9.
This tankōbon is written and illustrated by Tite Kubo. This first half of the tankōbon explores Ichigo Kurosaki getting his true Zanpakutō, as the Zangetsu was only parading as his Zanpakutō, when in actuality is the personification of his Quincy powers. The second half of the tankōbon, deals with the second invasion of the Sternritter on Soul Society with Yhwach proclaiming Uryū Ishida as his successor and has a heart-to-heart with him.
All in all, Bleach, Vol. 61 is a wonderful continuation to a series that seems intriguing and I cannot wait to read more.
August 23, 2024
VOLUME 61: CHAPTER 541-550
Arc 11: The Thousand Year Blood War
Ichigo confronted Zangetsu. Zangetsu tell that he is not Yhwach and he is not an enemy or an ally. He trying to suppress Ichigo's Shinigami power but he can't thats why he always used Hollow power to help Ichigo. Zangetsu vanished and Ichigo got a new Zanpakutou; a two blade that resembled Zangetsu and the Hollow, named Zangetsu also. The Wandenreich gathered and Yhwach announced his new successor; Uryuu. Most of the Sternritter didn't satisfied with the announcement as they rooting for Haschwalth to become Yhwach's successor.
The Sternritter consist of:
A: Yhwach
B: Jugram Haschwalth
C: Pernida Parnkgjas
D: Askin Nakk Le Vaar
E: Bambietta Basterbine
F: Äs Nödt
G: Liltotto Lamperd
H: Bazz-B
I: Cang Du
J: Quilge Opie
K: BG9
L: PePe Waccabrada
M: Gerard Valkyrie
N: Robert Accutrone
O: Driscoll Berci
P: Meninas McAllon
Q: Berenice Gabrielli
R: Jerome Guizbatt
S: Mask De Masculine
T: Candice Catnipp
U: NaNaNa Najahkoop
V: Gremmy Thomeaux
W: Nianzol Weizol
X: Lille Barro
Y: L. Loyd Lloyd / R. Royd Lloyd
Z: Giselle Gewelle
£: Shaz Domino
Renji and Rukia are training in Hyōsubei's Palace. Byakuya is recovered from his deadly wound. In the human world, Ichigo's friends been wondering where he go. Suddenly, Kyouraku appears to tell about Ichigo to them. He told that Ichigo probably will not come back to human world as he now training in Soul Palace. He have no idea what power that Ichigo will possess. To do save the human world, Ichigo must stay in Soul Society. Suddenly, Wandenreich appears in Seireitei. Yhwach told that the world will end in 9 days. Wandenreich is known as Invisible Empire as it resided in shadows.
Haschwalth contronted Kyouraku. Nakk Le Vaar confronted Mayuri and Nemu. Bazz-B confronted Toushiro and Rangiku. BG9 confronted Omaeda. Suddenly, Suí-Féng appears with her Shunkou that have been mastered. Both Bazz-B and BG9 can countered Toushiro and Suí-Féng respectively.
Arc 11: The Thousand Year Blood War
Ichigo confronted Zangetsu. Zangetsu tell that he is not Yhwach and he is not an enemy or an ally. He trying to suppress Ichigo's Shinigami power but he can't thats why he always used Hollow power to help Ichigo. Zangetsu vanished and Ichigo got a new Zanpakutou; a two blade that resembled Zangetsu and the Hollow, named Zangetsu also. The Wandenreich gathered and Yhwach announced his new successor; Uryuu. Most of the Sternritter didn't satisfied with the announcement as they rooting for Haschwalth to become Yhwach's successor.
The Sternritter consist of:
A: Yhwach
B: Jugram Haschwalth
C: Pernida Parnkgjas
D: Askin Nakk Le Vaar
E: Bambietta Basterbine
F: Äs Nödt
G: Liltotto Lamperd
H: Bazz-B
I: Cang Du
J: Quilge Opie
K: BG9
L: PePe Waccabrada
M: Gerard Valkyrie
N: Robert Accutrone
O: Driscoll Berci
P: Meninas McAllon
Q: Berenice Gabrielli
R: Jerome Guizbatt
S: Mask De Masculine
T: Candice Catnipp
U: NaNaNa Najahkoop
V: Gremmy Thomeaux
W: Nianzol Weizol
X: Lille Barro
Y: L. Loyd Lloyd / R. Royd Lloyd
Z: Giselle Gewelle
£: Shaz Domino
Renji and Rukia are training in Hyōsubei's Palace. Byakuya is recovered from his deadly wound. In the human world, Ichigo's friends been wondering where he go. Suddenly, Kyouraku appears to tell about Ichigo to them. He told that Ichigo probably will not come back to human world as he now training in Soul Palace. He have no idea what power that Ichigo will possess. To do save the human world, Ichigo must stay in Soul Society. Suddenly, Wandenreich appears in Seireitei. Yhwach told that the world will end in 9 days. Wandenreich is known as Invisible Empire as it resided in shadows.
Haschwalth contronted Kyouraku. Nakk Le Vaar confronted Mayuri and Nemu. Bazz-B confronted Toushiro and Rangiku. BG9 confronted Omaeda. Suddenly, Suí-Féng appears with her Shunkou that have been mastered. Both Bazz-B and BG9 can countered Toushiro and Suí-Féng respectively.
March 10, 2024
Ichigo finally learns to true nature of his sword, Zangetsu (which really is a metaphor of learning to accept himself in very much a Freudian and Jungian psychoanalytic manner). Again, a larger theme within Bleach. Overall, that part of the volume houses the best content. Although is it just me? Or is the design of Ichigo's new sword pretty lame? I dunno, it's probably just me. But the grip looks like it's got no heft. It looks more like a prototype from a 3-D printer than anything else. Aesthetically and realistically (from physic's level I guess you could say) it just doesn't look like a real sword. There's no counterweight to it, thereby showcasing that it just doesn't have the mechanics of a real sword. Hey, I like my suspension of disbelief to be somewhat reasonable.
Anyways, the build up continues on with the Quincy and I'm keen to see more of it from Uryu's end. I must say some of the dialogue is a bit clunky. And while I'm usually into metaphysical stuff, I don't quite buy how the Quincy managed to hide in the shadows the whole time.
Overall, a decent issue but there are some filler exchanges and a couple of fights that don't amount to much. Oh! It was nice to see Kyoraku go to visit Ichigo's friends in the human world. He really captures every scene he's in.
Anyways, the build up continues on with the Quincy and I'm keen to see more of it from Uryu's end. I must say some of the dialogue is a bit clunky. And while I'm usually into metaphysical stuff, I don't quite buy how the Quincy managed to hide in the shadows the whole time.
Overall, a decent issue but there are some filler exchanges and a couple of fights that don't amount to much. Oh! It was nice to see Kyoraku go to visit Ichigo's friends in the human world. He really captures every scene he's in.
February 25, 2023
Finally to the point where coers one ended! I think this was a good stopping point for the new anime. Ichigo and his true power and swords! I love it!!!
Uryu no :(
GET A JOB!!!!!STAY AWAY FROM HIM!!!!!!!
the karakura gang!! Poor tatsuki, keigo and mizuro. it’s nice that kyoraku respects ichigo enough to talk with the people he cares about. I really love him.
orihime and chad in hueco mundo! I feel like people don’t give her enough credit for going back there and staying to help out, she was traumatized pretty badly there before…
okay so if the quincy’s were living in the shadows of the seireitei the whole time, they must have heard of uryu attacking mayuri right? why didn’t they kill mayuri?? lol. He’s SO awful and ridiculous and I love him. absolutely clown of the seireitei. WAT is he wearing lmfao
really enjoyed the battles without bankai
Uryu no :(
GET A JOB!!!!!STAY AWAY FROM HIM!!!!!!!
the karakura gang!! Poor tatsuki, keigo and mizuro. it’s nice that kyoraku respects ichigo enough to talk with the people he cares about. I really love him.
orihime and chad in hueco mundo! I feel like people don’t give her enough credit for going back there and staying to help out, she was traumatized pretty badly there before…
okay so if the quincy’s were living in the shadows of the seireitei the whole time, they must have heard of uryu attacking mayuri right? why didn’t they kill mayuri?? lol. He’s SO awful and ridiculous and I love him. absolutely clown of the seireitei. WAT is he wearing lmfao
really enjoyed the battles without bankai
March 19, 2023
I was apprehensive about the plot twist from the end of the previous volume, and honestly I was dissatisfied at how it was handled here. The explanation for the retcon wasn’t really enough for me to buy it, but since it’s necessary for the plot going forward, I can accept it despite my gripes. I love how we further explore the Sternritter in this volume and their odd personalities and behaviours. The next Quincy invasion dives deeper into these newer characters while exploring further the characters we’ve already been introduced to. I’m very interested in where Uryū’s character is going from here, and I’m curious to see how his character arc develops further. I loved seeing the captains adapt to new fighting styles after losing their Bankai, and I loved seeing more Quincies fight. I liked this volume for advancing the story further into this arc.
May 27, 2024
I was apprehensive about the plot twist from the end of the previous volume, and honestly I was dissatisfied at how it was handled here. The explanation for the retcon wasn’t really enough for me to buy it, but since it’s necessary for the plot going forward, I can accept it despite my gripes. I love how we further explore the Sternritter in this volume and their odd personalities and behaviours. The next Quincy invasion dives deeper into these newer characters while exploring further the characters we’ve already been introduced to. I’m very interested in where Uryū’s character is going from here, and I’m curious to see how his character arc develops further. I loved seeing the captains adapt to new fighting styles after losing their Bankai, and I loved seeing more Quincies fight. I liked this volume for advancing the story further into this arc.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2021
Ehh for starting action of the arc I'm a little under whelmed
Summary:
Ichego has a conversation with Zangetsu/Yhwach and discovers he hasnt even been using his true powers that its both his quincy powers and his hollow that make up his power. He now has two blades. Uryu is named as Yhwach's successor. The Quincies start their attack on the soul society by changing it entirely into their land. Toshiro beat a quicy, giving the others hope that they can win without bankai. Soi Fon defeats a quincy also without her bankai. Or so it appeared both quincies bounced back and started to fight the captains
Summary:
Ichego has a conversation with Zangetsu/Yhwach and discovers he hasnt even been using his true powers that its both his quincy powers and his hollow that make up his power. He now has two blades. Uryu is named as Yhwach's successor. The Quincies start their attack on the soul society by changing it entirely into their land. Toshiro beat a quicy, giving the others hope that they can win without bankai. Soi Fon defeats a quincy also without her bankai. Or so it appeared both quincies bounced back and started to fight the captains
April 1, 2023
I decided to buy this volume because i was very indecisive on whether to wait until July for the second cour to start or get a little ahead on what's to come... And getting vol.61 was so worth it !! Seeing these characters develop both mentally and also in a fighting sense was really nice to see. Seeing kubo's masterclass of adding that element of comedy into serious fights was also surreal to read as someone that has bought their first bleach volume, but refreshing at the same time since watching the anime these last 10 years. I think I will get another volume but afterwards I will wait for the broadcast in July. It is defo worth the read !!
8/10
8/10
September 11, 2020
Ichigo discovers his true Zangetsu, and the Quincy attack again. Some interesting play with Yhwach's "heir" and a better look at how different the Sternritter are from each other- the Quincy force might be well-coordinated but they sure aren't completely "unified" other than their devotion to Yhwach. No cool powers or characters yet, but within a few days it looks like our protagonist forces already have their power-ups ready to go. The training arc is done, the next battle arc is here, and this volume was just a long way of saying that.
June 21, 2022
If I thought the previous volume was great, this one was even better.
I love the thought of Ichigo honoring both his Zangetsu's, the Quincy bond and the Hollow bond. I can't wait to see him fight with them!
And the depression I felt in the scene with Ichigo's friends and Shunshi, explaining that Ichigo might never come back to the real world? I am not ready for that T_T
There's also Uryu getting announced as the successor to the Quincys and the start of the battle that has like...really made the volume speed pass.
I love the thought of Ichigo honoring both his Zangetsu's, the Quincy bond and the Hollow bond. I can't wait to see him fight with them!
And the depression I felt in the scene with Ichigo's friends and Shunshi, explaining that Ichigo might never come back to the real world? I am not ready for that T_T
There's also Uryu getting announced as the successor to the Quincys and the start of the battle that has like...really made the volume speed pass.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 25, 2024
Some new revelations from the Quincy, a second wave of attacks and thence the beginning of new amazing battles!
On top of it we get to finally see the new Ichigo’s Zanpakuto.
I’m reading this as a refresh on what happened before part 3 of the last season, but still the battles look exciting and I really can’t wait to see more of it.
Tite’s art style is as always impeccable, making the manga really stand out.
I’m really curious on what is going on with Uryu…
On top of it we get to finally see the new Ichigo’s Zanpakuto.
I’m reading this as a refresh on what happened before part 3 of the last season, but still the battles look exciting and I really can’t wait to see more of it.
Tite’s art style is as always impeccable, making the manga really stand out.
I’m really curious on what is going on with Uryu…
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