As Jujutsu Kaisen reached its conclusion in 2024, fans felt a wave of relief rather than regret. Gege Akutami’s beloved shonen series captivated audiences with intense battles, yet its storyline often fell flat. At times, the fights were hard to follow—whether it was due to the weekly grind of shonen labels or the complex power systems that required lengthy explanations during the heat of battle, rivaling the infamous narrative tangles found in Bleach.
When Jujutsu Kaisen Modulo, the sequel series, emerged, I expected a repetitive echo of its predecessor’s flaws, much like what audiences experienced with Boruto. However, my curiosity got the better of me, and I was pleasantly surprised. Modulo not only stands strong on its own but, believe it or not, surpasses the original by addressing its shortcomings head-on.
New Beginnings: Context and Setting
From the very first chapter, Jujutsu Kaisen Modulo, crafted by Akutami and illustrated by Yuji Iwasaki, boldly steps away from the familiar. Set decades after the events of the original series, it acknowledges that the era of its old heroes has ended, welcoming a fresh generation. Nostalgia is present through nods and cameos but doesn’t overshadow the new main characters, avoiding the common “what if they were adults?” trope that many sequel series fall into.
Solid Foundations: A Clearer Narrative
While the original Jujutsu Kaisen seemed to construct its power system on the fly, Modulo establishes its narrative framework early. Instead of confusing battles filled with haphazard exposition, the sequel shifts its focus to a compelling storyline right from the get-go. The introduction of extraterrestrials into the mix feels like an adventurous leap, adding a new layer to the series’ excitement.
What makes Jujutsu Kaisen Modulo different from the original series?
In Modulo, the story takes place 68 years after the Culling Game in a future where humanoid aliens known as Simurians arrive on Earth seeking refuge. This new setting redefines the conflicts that our heroes face, as they grapple with the possibility of coexistence versus conflict between sorcerers and the Simurians.
Characters that Connect
Central to this narrative are newly-formed sorcerer siblings Yuka and Tsuguri Okkotsu, along with their alien ally, Maru. Yuka captures some of Yuta’s kindness with a playful twist, while Tsuguri merges the toughness of Maki Zen’in with Megumi’s calmness. Maru adds an alien flair reminiscent of Yuji Itadori, creating a trio that’s both relatable and dynamic. Together, they navigate imaginative battles reminiscent of the early days of JJK while maintaining a deeper exploration of their relationships and struggles.
How does the art of Modulo contribute to the story?
Yuji Iwasaki’s artistic style keeps the visuals clean and engaging, complementing Akutami’s writing. The action flows smoothly, and every panel feels intentional, avoiding the overwhelming infodumps often found in other manga. This partnership allows both creators to shine, steering the narrative away from complicated power scaling and toward genuine character development.
A Tale of Coexistence
Spanning a rich tapestry of themes, Modulo explores the complexities of identity and collaboration in a world caught between two races. Early chapters focus on Japan playing host to the Simurians, exploring relationships that mirror real-world struggles and the quest for understanding. The emotional depth of characters like Yuka emphasizes the trials of an immigrant experience, full of hope and tension.
What themes are prevalent in Jujutsu Kaisen Modulo?
The series weaves an immigrant narrative wrapped in classic shonen motifs. Through emotional bonds and risks taken by its characters, Modulo captivates readers with its thoughtful exploration of coexistence and the anxiety that accompanies it.
Final Thoughts
With less focus on mind-bending battles and more on story structure and character dynamics, Jujutsu Kaisen Modulo redefines its space in the manga world. It’s a refreshing evolution that makes the old format feel revitalized and relevant. If you enjoyed the original series, this sequel is sure to exceed your expectations and engage you in new ways.
Did you have any thoughts on how Jujutsu Kaisen Modulo compares to the original series? Feel free to share your insights in the comments below!