This is What SHUNSUI'S BANKAI Does in Bleach TYBW! Can it be BEATEN? The Deadly Theatre, EXPLAINED!

[@MrTommo2304]

At long last, we've finally seen Kyoraku's Bankai in the TYBW anime! What did you think? Were you impressed with the anime's portrayal of this crazy, whimsical ability? How could this Bankai be overcome? Let me know your thoughts!

[@raven4647]

It was so good that yellow background they used was really nostalgic and I also like the form of lilie's and can wait to see rest of the fight !

[@nimeshgirijeshmishra]

I do wonder how he showed his bankai to others for the first time when he became the captain. Did he kill everyone around him and that was considered reason enough or they found a different way to make him captain.

[@lolsnez7542]

Yes

[@Elariesel]

So many years, so many theories and questions about this Bankai and yet not even once have I found someone else - except myself ( „I alone am…” ) asking THE question most important. What would happen if Kyoraku used this technique, while fighting *already* deep underwater??

[@jacobortmann4835]

It was very impressive, as it should be coming from the Captain Commander. It's been kind of a meme since the old days, Byaukua's bankai being "what happens when you p.o. Japan" but then Shunshui releases his bankai in a "hold my sauke" kinda way, and it honestly looked and felt that way. Again just what you'd expect from the most mysterious and flowery captian. Of course it would be a play, involving parallels from his own life...culminating in a short embrace with the one woman who can't leave him, yet cannot be with him either. Is it any wonder he's a lush and very hesitant to talk about himself or use his Bankai? Not anymore no...and behind all that flashy rough exterior is cold calculated despair followed with a quick death. It's very poetic, as the TYBW has gone along, we see more and more sinister abilities and motivations from the "good guys" that makes most the bad guys look like saints. There's still alot left we haven't seen...but if you ask me, between Yamamoto, Osho, and now Shunshi, they should of had enough power to stop Aizen... especially when you add Urahara and Kurosutchi in the mix...I mean the Soul Reapers really have been moving more towards "evil" techniques them their outward demeanor and appearance suggests. Sorry...but the power to destroy worlds, control the color black, command the dead, and re write reality or names to achieve your means and alter the past/present/future...like those are not "Hero" abilities. Even something like "perfect hypnosis" seems rather neutral compared to Shunshui's Bankai...how his is one of the ones that isn't banned must be part of some secret and they keep its existence or actual power a secret from central 46....Like think back to when He and Ukitake were about to confront Yamamoto...now think how would that fight have really gone down if everyone present was really set on killing the other? It's like now we know...just how close soul society has really been to being destroyed, and over something as simple as mis trust and a lack of communication. Scary stuff!

[@betamikes3109]

Shunsui’s Shikai and Bankai are so complex it’s so fascinating. From “play” as in game to “play” as in theatre, it has so many possibilities ⚔️

[@Wakuraya42-q8n]

Also the stark contrast between how his Shikai is based on fun and whimsical children's games, meanwhile his Bankai is based on mature and more dark themes like heartbreak, death and despair. Which honestly makes sense seeing as how Zanpakuto is a reflection of it's Shikigami. Because on the outside, Shunsui has always put up the fascade of being a laid-back and goofy guy. And that's what we have seen throughout most of the series, until we reached the TYBW arc where Shunsui was thrown into the role of the Head Captain and was put into a situation where that goofy and funny fascade would do him a disfavour. His position as the new Head Captain during one of the biggest wars in the history of the Soul Society demanded him to show his true nature that alligns perfectly with the qualities and traits of his Bankai. That he is cold, calculated, and will not hesitate to sacrifice anything for the greater good. And that every now and then, the brother doesn't mind resting his head on the lap of a fine ass lady to catch his breath even she is just a manifestation of his Bankai that nobody else can see 😂

[@jamaelgraham1536]

These sorts of themes and deep meaning concepts are exactly why I love bleach.

[@kevinellis5931]

Shikai: You have to play the game. Bankai: You have to play the role.

[@ZafoolTV]

You could also argue that theatre is kind of a game for adult or adult play

[@boxiannn]

@@Wakuraya42-q8nah yes, the Starrk contrast

[@DFTNSHEXGRM]

I love how his Shikai is children games (reflects his outward calm, playful, chill personality) while his Bankai is an adult theater play (that reflects his more dark, sinister personality underneath). Really freakin awesome character building and using his Zanpakutou to reflect his personality.

[@timkruse9912]

such a perfect balance of a captain and his zanpakutou, kudos to kubo for writing such a brilliant well layered character. shunsui one of the best

[@sebastiantovarmarquez1902]

The Blade is Me my friend, Kubo is a mastermind

[@bluestylite7780]

Tybw has been so ridiculously good. Haven't been so locked in to any anime besides this in a while. Bleach is being goated

[@anti-liberal7167]

It already was 😂🐐🐐🐐 at least for me anyway

[@PapaTrife]

Ichigos still aint unlocked his full potential

[@garthyahudahandrews8504]

not since the tournament of power for me

[@spydamark]

Was always goated just being cemented

[@taeyeonist1462]

nice fights and animation, rubbish plot

[@TheGhost49]

I think the way it works is that upon activation his zanpakuto appears and tells him what play they'll be performing (hence we see Katen appearing around Shunsui, in perfect position to whisper in his ear at the activation). In this way, Shunsui does have some ability to control the events, but only so far as his zanpakuto spirit is willing to participate and only before the play has started. This would be similar to the way that Katen chooses what game is being played in his shikai. During his fight with Stark, he remarked that his zanpakuto can be powerful but only when it cooperates which, to me, implies that he can suggest what game or play is being brought to life, but Katen can choose to ignore him and do what she wants instead. That would imply that there are different "plays" for different amounts of individuals, both allies and enemies, depending on how Shunsui/Katen feel and who they want to involve or not involve.

[@antoj.5119]

You've just complicated things by 200%.

[@gadglichtg4840]

I like this idea and maybe it’s stronger if he acts well and goes with the flow of chosen play

[@nitemarestlk]

This can always been my theory with his bankai as well. Otherwise it is a one and done bankai for people who "survive" as rare as that sounds. Information on his bankai would negate most of it if it is ONLY one play.

[@sopanhaleng8644]

​@@antoj.5119but it might be true considering who we are talking about

[@bonnyolweny5817]

😂😂😂😂

[@Longjohnstone]

I personally think the reason Orihime and Chad get the chills (14:30) is because they are spectators of the theatre. They cant actually see the play (shunsui and lille) but they are feeling the effects as if they are watching it live. They have been thrust into the battle (game/theatre) halfway through and dont know whats going on but the Bankai's effect makes them feel like they are invested heavily in the story and dont know what's going to happen next.

[@olucasb93]

Kyoraku to put the entire Wahrwelt into his Bankai range while the spirit pressure density still altered is absurd. Captain Commander for a reason.

[@spiderdude2099]

Because the gold pattern and the way that the bankai activated had to get approved and was likely heavily supervised by Kubo, its inarguable that he preferred this look over the "stark shadowy darkness" that was shown in the manga. And the reason that Kyoraku still asks "doesnt it seem dark and opressive?" is referring to his SPIRITUAL PRESSURE rather than the actual visual appearance.

[@DFTNSHEXGRM]

Not only that but the sky is already dark.. it wouldn’t have the same impact if his Bankai turned the sky dark lol

[@spiderdude2099]

@ yeah exactly. It’d be a bit redundant

[@jordanderache4311]

To me it also represent his part in the play. He say that to represent the despair that will put both character suicide in motion. Something like -does it (it here is the world) dark and oppressive ? -yeah -then let's die together.

[@aarons6935]

In the manga chad confirms there was never actually genuine darkness, just the feeling of. On top of that, the yellow suits the japanese play theme far better.

[@lolsnez7542]

​@@aarons6935yeah

[@obrians-brown1307]

The fact that Shunsui Bankai is a thearte play makes me wonder if they are other 'plays' within his bankai as he has mutiple 'child games' in his Shikai.

[@DFTNSHEXGRM]

Yes, I’m surprised that Tommo didn’t bring this up - but Kubo has confirmed that Shunsui can use different plays with his Bankai. Perhaps the one we saw is the one that he has perfected or is its strongest one?

[@tspgajos7144]

​@@DFTNSHEXGRM Where Kubo confirmed that?

[@RandomGuy-ci9nt]

​@DFTNSHEXGRM This is the second time I've seen this. Where did Kubo say this?

[@themightymootv]

​@@DFTNSHEXGRMI've read other comments saying this but have not found anything on my own to back it up. If you can find/recall source would be appreciated

[@IStoleThePies]

@@DFTNSHEXGRM Usually when people say "Kubo has confirmed..." without providing the source, it's just a fan rumor

[@AndreAbreuS]

Remember the most important thing Urahara taught Ichigo from the begining of their training? Right after Ichigo woke up at Urahara's shop and they decided they were going to soul society to save Rukia. Resolve. He says emotion/strong resolve is stronger than iron. I think Shunsui's Bankai most dangerous trait is this one. It messes with ppl's emotion. Makes them gloomy, nervous. It weakens their resolve. In Bleach's world of fighting spirits, it weakens their opponent. It starts the chain of events that end up in the fatality of the play, of the show. The sneakier capability is the base of the bankai and it's most distinguishing trait. We have several examples of ppl getting weakened like that in the series. Ichigo during arrancar Arc is the main one. I don't even think Karamatsu Shinju would kill anyone in it's range like ppl tend to believe. Making their will falter is enough, and most of the strongest and smartest characters know it.

[@DFTNSHEXGRM]

Yep, it would be nearly impossible to avoid Act 2 because the initial shock of getting the injuries inflicted upon you would cause you to immediately regret it.. Even if just a little it would be enough to trigger Act 2. Then the disease is so shocking that it would also cause you to spiral and panic, followed by the sudden plunge into water etc. I caught onto this as well, and I think you’re right. Shunsui also doesn’t explain the trigger for each “Act” until AFTER it’s happened, so you can’t really avoid it. It’s more of a psychological mind game that his Bankai plays with you that causes you to essentially lose the moment it’s activated.

[@davighidetti8947]

It does seem broken asf though. But the whole premise really is to bring despair to the opponent and it worked pretty well. First, he gets defensive because he's injured / regrets hurting his opponent and so on.

[@MrGksarathy]

@@DFTNSHEXGRM I thought the same thing. You can't really get out of that momentary regret upon being injured, and the Bankai is probably messing with your emotions to keep the play going.

[@xdragoonzero0]

I think the issue is less that it kills anyone in range and more that anyone that's within it's (pretty enormous) range is at risk of getting involved in the play. For example, we see that Askin and Ichigo are within range but they pause attacking each other when they feel the effects. It's possible that were one of them to attack the other it would trigger Act 1 and thus subsequent acts. If this is possible then it's easy to see why Shunsui wouldn't activate it during his battle with Stark, as it could have immediately doomed allies battling anywhere in the fake Karakura town just as easily as the enemies. Further it's possible that the ocean created in Act 3 would effect those nearby those that are currently part of the "play", meaning even bystanders could be affected even if they don't attack someone.

[@KaiserAfini]

Yep. Act 1 makes you doubt attacking, act 2 punishes you for it, despite nothing stopping you from trying again. So by the time act 3 begins, you want to flee and that sets the narrative flow in Shunsui's favor, allowing him to use the finishing move. An opponent that does not play around and just powers through would probably turm the play against Shunsui.

[@patrickfieldsFPV]

I wanted it to last even longer with even more “YOOOOoooo”.

[@19faf]

That would sounds like Brook from One Piece lol

[@backontrackdeno]

I would say that the anime version and the "dark and depressing" theme works even better, quite on the contrary to your image - the theatre play has started and even though the stage is lit, you are left feeling as if you are watching a lit scene, while you are still left in the darkness of the auditorium. The contrast of those explains it here.

[@kadabrium]

Pain split, curse, mean look, perish song, shadow sneak

[@isaivilchis5921]

Mmm maybe toxic instead of curse and persuit instead of shadow sneak

[@xxcagedriotxx]

Imo this is a sure kill move to anyone caught within a given range. This would explain why he makes the statement about hoping everyone is far enough away at this point. It would also explain his seemingly sparing use of bankai ( compared to other captains and based on his conversation with his zanpaktou spirit). He has a similar issue to Shinji where it basically needs to be a 1v1 with no spectators but for different reasons. AND it would explain why Yama was still the head captain despite Kyoryaku having such a seemingly unstoppable power. Using it in a fight to prove his strength would have meant killing Yama.

[@DFTNSHEXGRM]

Makes me wonder about how did Isane and everyone that got sniped earlier survive lol I imagine they’re just on the ground going through it while this Bankai is activated 😂

[@xxcagedriotxx]

@DFTNSHEXGRM that would be quite the scene lol. He said he was back to where they entered from so hopefully they were far enough away. 😂

[@Kadeem.C.]

Shinji would prefer a 1 vs 2 or more enemies

[@Rhaegar19]

I think that it also bears substantial risk to him, which is why it's called "shinju" or "double suicide". If the opponent reads it correctly and doesn't progress the acts, then either they both die or only Shunsui dies.

[@kariköykayışmerkezi]

good luck to shunsui about getting survived from heat of the sun w/o using blut

[@manuelacosta9463]

It perfectly suits his Commander status and philosophy. Deadly games and a play that show war is definitely not a game, the dark melancholic aura driving this home. Shunsui is one who prefers to end conflict immediately and save his side in the process and his Bankai helps that along.

[@Liquidforce4441]

I've never read the Manga so this is my first time seeing his Bankai, Shunsui is also my favorite captain. TYBW has been an absolutely crazy ride and a treat to say the least. It's also been really cool to see your view from the Manga perspective as I would have never even known somethings you mention so its like bonus content, thank you Mr. Tommo.

[@FLEXmen1]

I think that Shunsui's Bankai has a certain amount of tales it can tell (of which Shunsui and Ohana know the stories). HOWEVER each tale requires a set amount of people in order to take effect. So for his Bankai to work here he NEEDED only 2 actors in order to start this specific tale. If Nanao was in the range of the Bankai a different tale would have had to start as it had 3 actors playing roles. And this was the only tale that would have ended in the demise of 1 actor. This would also explain why when he was fighting with Kyoraku against Stark he was willing to use his bankai. Cause in that scenario a tale consisting of 3 actors would still be a fitting tale to be told resulting in a victory for him an Kyoraku. That all being said. I FUCKING LOVE SHUNSUI! By far my favorite character. And I squeeled and cried with how the adapted the Bankai in the anime. I don't tend to rewatch episodes. But this one was an instant rewatch just like the dancing scene from Arcane.

[@DFTNSHEXGRM]

This is actually a really awesome take. Sounds like it would be something Kubo would cook up.. Hope it’s something similar to this. Kubo did confirm in a Q&A that Shunsui’s Bankai can manifest multiple different theater plays.

[@ojenzdaniel2463]

i think you meant his fight with ukitake against starrk there. unless you’re implying he’s cloning himself in that fight

[@IStoleThePies]

@@DFTNSHEXGRM Kubo never confirmed this. Please stop spreading misinformation

[@Rizingfz08]

Perfect episode, one of the best in Bleach, we just started with the peak episodes from here.

[@The_Windows_95]

The anime seems to have kyoraku's bankai emit an aesthetic of "twilight" rather than pure darkness. The golden color and darkened buildings are really reminiscent of the Twilight Realm from The Legend of Zelda, which is very cool. Also, as some people have already pointed out, traditional japanese plays tend to have a similar golden color to their settings.

[@kevonlordoftheslimes9084]

The gold of the anime version reminds me more old parchment or weathered scrolls. Which sells the part of it being a play very well, its worn, its tired, but it persists to tell the story within

[@blackfox4138]

I always imagined Katenkyokatsu being a very independent Zanpakuto. My little headcanon is that Katen is the one that decides what game is being played and Shunsui just has to to roll with it. Likewise, the performance of his Bankai is also dependent on Katen, meaning that it's a Bankai that holds a lot of risk and prep work before activating.

[@MrGksarathy]

@@blackfox4138 This probably also is a result of Kyouraku treating Katen like his wife/soulmate as opposed to a part of himself. Because he treats her as his jealous wife, probably because she defined the dynamic as such, he cannot truly accept his blade as part of him, and thus Katen holds the reins, just as a wife controls her husband's sake money.

[@cian239]

Does that mean Shunsui’s bankai could kill him lol

[@MrGksarathy]

@@cian239 By definition yes.

[@Shayde27]

Not just a headcannon, it was stated earlier that Katen chooses the games they play in his shikai, and that she's not always cooperative which indicates that she chooses the play in bankai too

[@Aerthkil]

Im sas they removed the line of shunsui remembering stark, it was nice to see that kubo didn't forget the goat until now

[@psypsy751]

He can probably enact multiple scenarios depending on Kyoraku's accurate character judgement. Like if he determines a character flaw in his opponent, he'll enact a scenario that tests for that specific flaw, and if the enemy doesn't complete a character arc and overcome their character flaw, they fail the test. This would make Kyoraku's bankai scale with his wisdom and his perceptive nature as the seasoned veteran Miyamoto Musashi type.

[@tbd-2bdetermined653]

It always felt like to me that, much in the same way he can play numerous games even combining them, once his Bankai is activated there are a number of "plays" that he can choose. Much in the same way you speculated. My suspicion grew once the Hell arc was hint with the details of WHO was in Hell was given. Though, in true Kubo fashion, when he was asked any additional questions about Shunsui's Bankai for deeper context, he provided an answer that didn't directly answer the actual question asked.

[@alexferreira6100]

This video was super necessary!

[@Mangs1337]

I have to say, I absolutely loved Shunsui's Bankai, but honestly, I wish both the manga and anime had spent more time on the Shikai portion of his battle with Lille Barrow. While Shunsui's Bankai reveal was exciting, it’s not a power that allows for much interaction. The opponent mainly has to endure it, and in the end, Lille simply overcomes it with his Quincy abilities, which isn’t the most thrilling outcome. On the other hand, Shunsui's Shikai is incredibly cool because it forces his opponent to actively participate. This creates a perfect opportunity for both sides to showcase their intellect and improvisational skills. For example, when Shunsui fought Stark, it transformed the battle into one of strategy and wits, rather than pure power. Moreover, his Shikai is the only one in the series where explaining how it works to your opponent doesn’t make you look foolish (looking at you, Shinji). According to Kyōraku, the opponent can’t even play the game if they don’t understand the rules. In my opinion, the Shunsui vs Lille fight should have received the same treatment as Mayuri vs Pernida. An entire episode dedicated to just the first part of their battle, Shunsui's Shikai against Lille in his base form. This would give plenty of room for twists and turns, with Lille having to think quickly as he tries to deal with a game that grows more complex. The episode could end with Shunsui stabbing Lille, and the next episode could focus on the aftermath (it wouldn’t need a full episode, just maybe half). I think most people would agree that battles of intellect are far more engaging to watch than just power clashes, like something out of Dragonball. I don’t blame Kubo for rushing this fight, though he was clearly under a lot of pressure to wrap things up and move the story forward.

[@darkwarfare772]

While I understand, Lille B doesn't seem like the type of combatant to play along. He's used to "one hit kills" and things over and done with quickly. He is intelligent enough to know the rules of the games, but he don't and won't want to play along. The whole fight would just be Shunsui poking at Lille and Lille just avoiding everything (as once both eyes open he can't be hit) anyway. So a longer shikai fight won't be interesting, and I can understand why it did not become an extended fight. Lille will use overwhelming power to just one shots his opponents. He is self claimed the first of "God's angels/creations" and too up himself to want to suss out Shunsui and his abilities.

[@Mangs1337]

@@darkwarfare772 Yeah, but this is what I think is maybe a flaw in Lille's character design. He was introduced as this badass sniper who uses stealth and cunning to fight his opponents, but then he just has this hax power that doesn't let him be hit at all. I think a more extended fight where he had to outsmart Shunsui would have been a lot cooler.

[@vonnstevens2502]

We will be there for kenpachi, toshiro, kisuke, and ichigo’s true bankai no matter what

[@shahlegno5890]

His Bankai is Masterpiece ! 🎉

[@bluestylite7780]

Shunsui is such a Chad lol

[@dictatorsean3]

They are acing this TYBW arc! Also, love these reviews. Keep it up.

[@cheapseance]

I somehow get the feeling that, just like how his shikai has a variety of games, his bankai as well has a number of plays that can be performed. I might be reaching but aside of the newer Konjiki Ashisogi Jizo: Matai Fukuin Shotai and Kokujo Tengen Myoo: Dangai Joe, which are a newer, modified versions of the original bankai, Katen Kyokotsu: Karamatsu Shinju is titled in the same manner. Coincidentally, since Shunsui and Katen created Kyokotsu, it could be possible that the bankai itself either has several forms or that it has simply changed or evolved from what it originally was.

[@otakugameraquarius1883]

Shunsui’s theater tragedy was absolutely beautiful this episode 😍

[@mcc2140]

His Bankai is basically the the Four Horsemen of Apocalypse War, Pestilence(or Famine),Conquest, Death

[@surtur2624]

Pestilence is not one of the 4 horsemen

[@nicogmv2364]

@@surtur2624 In some versions it is, but it replaces Conquest. Hunger is missing there.

[@riicky83]

Act one of the Bankai misses one injury. Shunshi transfers the stomach and shoulder injuries he got before activating his bankai but he had another injury before his Bankai, his left foot when he thought he dodged Lille's attack.

[@kingofcarrotflowers5364]

Does Lillie even have feet at that point? It's just pointy leg

[@riicky83]

@@kingofcarrotflowers5364 They kinda look like horse legs and by that standard. Horses like most quadupedal animals, they walk on their finger/toes instead of their full hand/feet. So in Lille's case, the tips of his legs would be his feets/toes.

[@boxiannn]

@@kingofcarrotflowers5364he has the arceus legs

[@execrisiscoreonearth]

I'm throughly convinced the color choice is moreso about twilight/dusk than absolute darkness, though I think the theories of having to approve the color scheme choice and that his "doesn't it feel oppressive?" question referring to his spiritual pressure and not necessarily the hue of his bankai are also valid explanations. But also I rly rly think it's all about the darkness that has yet to come, here. It's about the golden hour before absolute darkness, not absolute darkness itself.... Theme-wise, at least.

[@LeoLikesLamb]

Shunsuis bankai was a sight to behold and the cherry on top was seeing my man askin about turn Ichigo into rugchigo 😂

[@tnuhenaj3752]

the entire bankai is based on the play sonezaki shinju so if anything is confusing about it either look it up or assume its related to that play. I'm kinda not satisfied with kubo's answer about the bankai. I think it would be more fitting if it had a "the show must go on mentality" and continues regardless of any performer or audience member passing away.

[@MeteorFalcon]

Its so insane that a character who was designed just for a filler arc is fully animated as canon now. So cool

[@StefveoX]

Mr Tommo: this video will be short Video: *be 20 minutes* Lolll jk! I love your videos man, keep it up!

[@MrGksarathy]

The one thing that strikes me as odd here is Kyouraku's relationship with Katen. They seem to treat each other as lovers, at least in a sense, which goes against Ō'etsu's whole idea of "the blade is me", yet Kyouraku's Bankai is still among the strongest. Could it be that while that realization helps one unlock their Zanpakuto's and their own true power, it's not the only way to do so, or could it be that Kyouraku is so powerful, that Katen Kyokotsu Karamatsu Shinju is still this strong when not fully awakened?

[@arrowdemon2638]

Is it that surprising? Look at the kind of man he is. Why wouldn't he have a zanpakuto spirit that loves him? I think it's fitting of his overall personality. It would probably seem odd to anyone witnessing their relationship as well(at least anyone who didn't know him super well). Ukitake and Nanao probably wouldn't be surprised at all😂

[@MrGksarathy]

@arrowdemon2638 That's not what's odd. It's that him treating his Zanpakuto spirit like a lover contradicts the idea that all truly powerful Shinigami have accepted the blade as a part of themselves, not a friend, enemy, mentor, or lover. Ichigo has to accept Zangetsu's power as his own to call upon, not something he's lent, but Shunsui seems to need Katen's full cooperation.

[@RandomGuy-ci9nt]

​@MrGksarathy Well, Katen was talking about them being sword and Shinigami and being incompatible. I think it's just a stage below the Blade is me

[@quelqunx7470]

You might be onto something! If there are multiple plays that the bankai can perform, but it's Katen who's choosing which to perform instead of Shunsui. It would make sense that he doesn't want any ally in range, since he doesn't know if it's good or bad. Even if Shikai, he can't fully choose the game that's being played. And this ties in with treating the sword as a lover and not part of himself because a lover has agency and can make different choices than the partner. Whereas if he treats the sword as part of himself, he would have agency over his sword (himself), thus be able to choose the play.

[@MrGksarathy]

@@quelqunx7470 I think it also plays into why none of his flirtations really go anywhere. For better or worse, he's sworn to his ohana, a part of himself in a somewhat unhealthy codependent relationship. I wonder if and how he could resolve this and how it might change his Shikai and Bankai. That, and what does it say about Kyouraku that a part of himself is incredibly possessive of him and won't yield control of his abilities?

[@robertdavidblakely]

I adore how it looked in the episode. It's absolutely brilliant in presentation and execution

[@bickybesan5149]

Kyoraku Spritual pressure covered the whole wahrwelt, it is so amazing

[@justinhart-nishikawa3105]

Kyoraku is definitely my favorite. I love the contrast between his shadowy, cutthroat, assassin skillset and his humble, laid-back, pacifism.

[@Lachgummei]

Nice explanation. Personally i do believe there are different plays kyoraku could have used. 1stly because his Shikai has multiple games to choose from, even intertwining between them midfight (as seen in this episode). 2ndly as it played out, it wouldnt make much sense for kyoraku to worry about his allies getting cought in it. As seen here it was a play only between those two fighters. What i got from your explanation is, that maybe in act 2 when lille would take the sustained wounds, his plan to use the play as it turned out wouldnt have worked and so he would have to change it (just like he changed the childrengames of his shikai). Maybe in that case, the only Option would be to collapse the whole play (the whole theater) and every visitor in it. There at least has to be some sort of AOE Option in his bankai or Else he wouldnt be so adamant about not using it when allies are around.

[@pianoforte611]

I had the same question about whether he can perform different plays. But there is a problem - the name. Karamatsu shinju means withering pine lover's suicide. So if he can perform multiple plays, they all have to end the same way with everyone dying.

[@chris.c6]

11:08 this mf spittin 😂

[@chrisbarnesbarnes8332]

Straight bars😂. How long does it take him to pronounce and memorize all these names

[@atpr3241]

Nah son you couldn't pay me to try pronouncing that 😂

[@elbandito2990]

I think someone is doomed either way. How I see it, Act 1 is the "lock in" part, and Act 2 is meant weaken them for Act 3 and the Final Act. I can think of a few characters that would more than likely win that battle. The bankai relies on mind games and a calm demeanor which is perfect for Shunsui.

[@illgoat]

A character like old man Yama or Kenpachi wouldn't be easily phased, so they'd have a chance of not losing

[@skimt7818]

I think Shunsui's Bankai is simpler than people think. I think the story must contain a set of chapters (four), all which will have negative outcomes, and that anyone can narrate the story, but that it plays devil's advocate and favour's no one. Shunsui doesn't let the enemy know of this, because he doesn't have to. The children's games were different, because everyone must know the rules in order to play. But nobody needs to know that they could barge the stage and narrate the story themselves. He chooses a story he knows of where he has a highest chance of surviving, but this story becomes impossible to tell if there are others nearby, as the story will change thus the outcome too.

[@yahyawihamza4064]

This ep is 10/10 lets vote it perfect on imdb 💥💥💥

[@Luc9Nine]

you theory of Shunsui's bankai makes a lot of sense, thanks for another great video

[@fahadahmed5755]

His Bankai I think in acts the play where Shunsui does play a character but is primarily the narrator. The opponent does not control his reality in his bankai’s domain. If the act requires one to feel regret or guilty one simply feels it and the act proceeds. It can only end after act 4 or if one of the actors die prior to the finale like stated in the video. His Bankai alters reality along with its rules and has a fate determining nature to it.

[@undeade.t7044]

i really hope in the hell arc we get to see his bankai again and see if he could act out multiple plays because it would kind of suck if he can play multiple games but only act out one play

[@rakshithanand8262]

Something I appreciate with Shunsui and his dad Old Man Yama is that they both express their Bankai in multiple stages, and, more tellingly, both keep to the theme of “four is death” you see a lot of in Japan. It makes me wish for more scenes of them training together, since I doubt anyone else could get Shunsui’s Bankai to express itself like that specifically.

[@gabrielrasilva]

The damage shared by them can't kill the oponent because otherwise Kyoraku would alread die b3cause of the wounds.

[@milojeanne]

The fascinating thing about shunsui's shikai and bankai is that his shikai is turning an innocent game into a violent play, while his bankai is a violent kabuki play masked into an almost innocent theatrical act. Think about it, when you play children's games, when one loses, they don't say 'you lose' but instead 'you're it' or 'you're dead'. The shikai transforms that in a literal sense. Further, a kabuki play is 'romanticizing' real life happenings during the Edo period, thus, the themes mostly consists of violent revenge plot or tragedy. When you watch an actual kabuki play, you kind of get distracted by the vibrant colors and lively music, but each story is actually filled with violence prevalent during those war times in Japan.

[@718Insomniac]

Yeah Bleach is best anime for 2023,2024. This episode solidified that.

[@fuwafuwaru]

Orifice? I'm sorry but being an English teacher I really find it helpful to listen to MrTommo's reviews and videos for fresh vocabulary. This video did not disappoint.

[@micheal5973]

Always wonder for act 2 if shunsui could trigger act 3 himself by attacking and making himself regret or if they’re just stuck in act 2 just waiting for one of them to bleed out first.

[@Kakumo-z1g]

If kyoraku's bankai can consider a character has disappeared during the play (where the opponent might die or manage to teleport outside the bankai range during the act of bankai) and the bankai's effect then come to an end. Then it should be possible if the character can teleport to escape the bankai effect, in this case if Lille use the quincy shadow technique to escape from the bankai or for someone like Grimmy to just use the Visionary to teleport Kyoraku to a different place instead.

[@Daruno]

Maybe for "Dark" he doesnt means literally, but how does the person feels inside, maybe even, the golder dome is just for us and Kyoraku to see, like Katen

[@YourProfessional-Gachagamer]

Here to say that Tommo's thumbnail game is immaculate 👌🏻 Thanks for another video, can't wait for the review.

[@lawlietsImagination]

I don’t hate the golden effect, just thought it’d be darker and more sinister

[@shahlegno5890]

The sky already dark by quincy doing

[@lolsnez7542]

It is darker and sinister

[@cian239]

Its supposed to be a stage light for a play

[@BlackangelKatakuri]

That's why I disliked it

[@Dooferification]

based on his first form and being able to bring any childrens game(play time) to life, im betting the acts change based on situation/what he wants and his bankai is that of bring adult plays to life

[@Nether2342]

I think his bankai might have many different plays it could play out, based on the number of "actors" caught in area of effect.

[@raulnavarrete692]

I think it makes sense that the only way to "win" in this banki is to make it to act 3 and agree to go through with the suicide together. Then it forces the captains hand to complete the show and kill himself

[@samfisher6606]

This episode only proves to me that I was right in choosing Shunsui as my favorite character. And his Bankai is a perfect representation of his personality: hyper-pragmatism wrapped in childishness. I have always loved how Shunsui and Katen's relationship is that of an old married couple. I wish all Zanpakutō spirits appeared when a Bankai is activated like this. And I'm with you that Jushiro would create some type of water, rain, maybe even a hurricane or tsunami environment given his Zanpakutō's name is "Justice of Fish." In fact, I think it may even show the story of the koi fish turning into the Azure Dragon, and then because I also think it has four stages, each stage is the four Auspicious Beasts.

[@arnold9098]

All these years of waiting, it was worth it.. Ohana and Jiro are such a solid duo

[@Oromanowarful]

Waiting for the video if and when we see aizens bankai reveal. I don't think its possible to escape karamatsu shinju, it fits with the theme of what kyouraku was talking about children pulling you into their games.

[@dionysisnance4204]

Truly a beautfiul Yet dangerous bankai

[@strider_hiryu850]

16:01 i feel like other performances (with different names) should be possible. i also get the feeling that it was not Shunsui who chose this particular theatre performance, but rather: the Zanpakuto itself. or should i say, 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒇 because i think it was Katen specifically whom chose this 4 act play. so that she could manifest more easily and have a dialogue with Kyoraku. whereas, let's say Kyokotsu chose the theatre performance. well then probably, 𝒔𝒉𝒆'𝒅 be the one to manifest and have a conversation with Shunsui. that's my theory at least. i hope it made sense. i think it did. 16:29 i don't think the performance would stop. i just think the effect of that act wouldn't take hold. so the enemy wouldn't get struck by the incurable illness. 19:07 presumably the opponent Kyoraku is facing is forced to take on the other role. and all he meant by "caught up in" is that the feeling of darkness & chills gets stronger, the closer they get to Kyoraku. but the theatre performance itself wouldn't hurt them. 20:08 i personally think it's impossible to escape. we see Lille try to escape by swimming away. but presumably, even if he attempted to teleport away it wouldn't work. there is no escaping this Bankai. once you've been designated as the "partner" or "lover" or whatever, that is it. your fate is sealed. even someone as powerful as Yuhabaha (or i guess Goku if you want to do a cross-verse analysis) wouldn't be able to escape. not because it's so powerful. but because it operates on "Rules". Rules which you are forced to abide by. it's just that it's balanced by the fact that Kyoraku himself also suffers from the effects of... well at least of Act 3. i do want to speculate on what a Kyokotsu Bankai would look like. this one was a Shinju type play. so maybe Katen could also activate a Noh type play. which is also a very serious, somber theatre performance. then Kyokotsu could perhaps activate a Kabuki or Bunraku type play? presumably, the prefix would also change? so for Katen they would still both be Karamatsu Shinju or Karamatsu Noh. but then, Kyokotsus would be... i'm not really sure. something a bit more lighthearted than "Withering Pine Needles"

[@KingChayle87]

Seeing Shunsui's bankai play out for the first time in the anime draws me back to when Starkk was demanding he show him his bankai. Starkk would have lasted about as long as Lille here against it. Then again, Starkk didn't leave as much in the way of wounds on Shunsui. Maybe Starkk wouldn't feel regret and the plays would be disjointed.

[@MikesterMF]

Hearing it explained this way, it makes sense why Kyoraku was so resistant to using his bankai against Stark. Given his temperment and excessive reiatsu, by the time they both got to Act 3 pf the Bankai, Stark would probably be perfectly fine waiting and not fighting as their reiatsu drained away. And given how juch reiatsu he had, he would more than likely outlast Kyoraku.

[@ChosenPirateKing]

Man I remember when he first dropped in brave souls, dude completely changed the way the game was played. He’s a top 10 for sure out of the captains

[@Uberdude6666]

"Etherial golden glow" is very well put indeed! Its not dark, but I think it still looks sinister and off-putting. Its not a hopefull, "shining light", its more of a ghostly glow, or something. Its something off-putting about how it looks like the world of someone who feels comfortable and at-home in the dark. Its also worth remembering that his bankai is used in an enviroment that was already quite dark and gloomy-looking, with the black sky and everything. If Kyoraku were to use his bankai in, like, regular daylight-setting, I think it would look very "dark and depressive" indeed. The yellow colour could also be an inversion of the new yellow-bordered shadow effect in his shikai-abilities...

[@kickinnflickin1646]

i love shunsuis bankai, u can tell the creator put some thought into it….its different and unique outside of the others… he just badass all around

[@Zeroninja-j5c]

It’s crazy shunsui zampacto sprite is the same as the anime only arc. Good on kubo for keeping her. Filler arcs are pretty much never canon but he put her in the manga as well.

[@adamwhite6797]

I also like how both captain commanders have what are essentially 4 stages or powers of their bankais

[@elrojogrande744]

did anyone else completely miss that ohana has her arms draped over his shoulders? such a cool detail

[@obsidianblade8762]

Oh man !!! Was I waiting for this! It did not disappoint. Only wish was: it was a whole episodes for the the final fights. But it's getting animated, so I'm happy regardless

[@randomme851]

His shikai makes childs play games and pretend fatally real. His bankai makes grown up pretend and games of the heart even more fatal.

[@tmoore6463]

I think if Nanao got caught up, the story would change to adapt a third character. That’s probably why Ukitake was against others seeing the tragedy.

[@royalreptile923]

Shunsui: “Doesn’t it appear to be dark and gloomy?” Lille: “It’s literally bright and yellow.” 🤨

[@aarons6935]

In the manga it was was never actually dark, it was just the feeling of it. They literally say it.

[@HiiragiTia]

How to survive Kyouraku's Bankai? Have much will power, resolution and reiatsu to withstand his game and to not play. So, Aizen, Yhwach and Yamamoto would win

[@EvilNinja182]

I FUCKING love kyouraku. I love the duality of his whimsy and woe, and how that’s reflected by his zanpakutou. I think his shikai and bankai follow a nice progression into maturity from childishness but show how they carry an identity through both, while becoming a more meloncholy and refined piece of art. He’s always come across as a sincere man who doesn’t get serious often so it’s so tragic and intense to see him lose so much in this arc with his master and best friend and be thrust into a role he wasn’t expecting while taking to it so well. This bankai comes at the arc of Shunsui’s greatest turmoil yet he’s shouldering the weight of honor and survival with such poise. His bankai now poetically displays the tragedy of his life so lavishly and with such acceptance. I likebthat he fights Lile here because he kind of believes he’s honored by fate yet Kyouraku, time and time again, has risen up to his fate no matter what it has thrown at him. So it’s fitting that this godlike, impenetrable figure is taken down by a fate, a story, in which he an unwilling performer. Kyouraku is an aware actor of fate, gracefully accepting the tragedy he must act out. Even though this half of the fight was over all too soon I loved this section. I’m still excited for Nanao’s part later but I think I prefer this part. It shows fate finally smiling back at Kyouraku for his diligence and allows him to break a promise but it felt too fast and simple to one shot lile after hiding for a bit. Hopefully we get a bit more struggle and the anime takes it time on that scene. Amazing fight.

[@savvivixen8490]

I LOVE his bankai. When I first read it, I was agape with awe and excitement, because it fits him SOOOO well! To me, it was a satisfying reveal about him and both identities of his zanpakuto. Shisui's everything I wanted in a shinigami... 😍🥰 Anyway, as you mentioned, I suspect his zanpakuto chooses the stories just like they chose the games. Also, I doubt his bankai is a 1HKO in the truest sense, because "the show must go on" even if the other actor is on the wooden side, lol. That is, I think even if the other "actor's" resolve isn't shaken, the effects will still go through because the cost/effect of the bankai reiatsu field is what fuels the brunt of the attacks (and lack of resolve makes you more suseptible). I doubt we'd come across someone this wouldn't affect for 3 reasons: 1) Kyoraku is intuitive enough to understand when psychological attacks aren't effective, and wouldn't risk his life doing something he's confident won't work. 2) The zanpakuto chooses the play anyway, and is just as intuitive as Kyoraku is. I doubt she'd randomly pick a play, but rather she's actively analyzing the opponent to potentially choose a starring role for the opponent in a play relevant to their disposition. 3) In Act 4, Kyoraku actively informs his opponent "Hey, this is a reiatsu endurance test. I'm not keen on this method because it risks my life too, but that just means this'll be fair and square now. Outlast me if you can." I'm pretty sure he was clear about making him expend all his reiatsu was the only chance of escape, but attempting to escape any other way may be the trigger for the Finale. As if to say, "You just flagged yourself as not confident in your ability to outlast me fair and square, you absolute punk. Get outta here!!!" It's possible that Kyoraku can attack anyway, but runs the risk of expending all his reiatsu in that one moment, leaving him open to a nasty counterattack (if the opponent happens to have reiatsu after that, meaning they "won" that challenge, I guess). Obviously, my name is not Tite Kubo, so only he knows for absolute certain (which is actually another understated strength of this bankai). I'm just speculating myself on how I'm lowkey hoping it works, lol.

[@JarvisBaileyVA]

Kyoraku was absolutely the right choice for Captain Commander. I absolutely love the development he's gotten and his power can only grow considering how strong Yama is regarded even after his death and the intro of so many other busted characters since. He's my favorite character not counting our glorious king Ichigoat.

[@eliotwildermann]

Bruh shunsui is just absolutely amazing i love everything about him 😊

[@samking6602]

Regarding having more than just Kyoraku and an opponent in the Bankai, I’d be curious if the play changes based on the number of “actors.” Meaning, maybe if Nanao was also within range, Kyoraku would have to use a play involving three actors

[@tylermorrison9775]

something i only realized now is that Kyoraku's overall design works as a fun homage to the Japanese theatre themes of his Bankai. In Kabuki theatre there is a term "Onnagata" which refers to a man playing the role of a woman by wearing women's clothing (this was due too a shogunate ban on women in Kabuki that started in 1629). Not only does Kyoraku play the role of a woman in the performance of his bankai, but he IS infact wearing a woman's clothes: The floral Kimono and hair pins given to him by Nanao's mother.

[@nicodemusedwards6931]

Kyoraku whipped out a whole ass Domain Expansion.

[@crayhack]

i like that lille barro is a biblically accurate angel as the first sternritter. it feels kinda beautiful that the angel turns its back on the human lover and is punished. if he was a true angel and did no harm and held no regret and did not abandon his punishment, he would have survived

[@Voltekka15a2]

Given his shikai's portfolio of various children's games, I 100% believe his Bankai would've just chosen a different play/ script were Nanao caught up in it. With such a massive area of effect, I'm sure there are plays at the ready for practically any number of opponents (which is anyone who isn't Kyoraku, from Ohana's perspective). Imagine Kyoraku up against a massive number of powerful opponents, and his bankai decides to reenact a Warring Kingdoms stage play. The whole situation would devolve into Dynasty Warriors.

[@SlyMelodica.]

An interesting upgrade or If for Shunsui can be to pick stories on the fly based on the person thats even more broken

[@IanLegacyMoone]

We finally got it🎉 goodness me... The years of waiting to see it animated❤❤❤

[@GM-dg6mj]

man i wish they add a line that foreshadow nanao's sword a bit. like even slightly it would've been better than none at all. when nanao visits kyoraku during his face off against lille. they should've add a line from nanao saying something like " don't make me have to use 'it' " or kyoraku saying something like " don't worry nanao chan, i got this, you don't have to use 'it' ".

[@hotzcakezp1600]

Seeing it in anime helps understand it. Wish we got more on unohana still.

[@sadomoreno5829]

Old man Yama is still my favorite but Shunsui's shikai is my favorite shikai

[@derrikwilliams2718]

This Bankai and shunsui’s personality is a strong parallel to Shuhei and his fear of battle and how its Bankai leads to a battle that dwindles down to the end. I imagine Izuru’s Bankai would have a similar weird effect

[@Holywind16]

I’d imagine the best way to best Shunsui’s bankai would be to create a better narrative that sees you coming out on top. Similar to the Shikai if an opponent is creative enough and plays by the rules then they’d take ownership of the effects and become the MC and make the narrative work in their benefit. Fortunately Shunsui never has to deal with someone leagues above him in intelligence and improvisational skill

[@Isiel42]

I like to think that his Zanpakuto is the one who chooses the scenario (likely based on her mood), which is why he doesn't like to use his Bankai when any allies are around because he doesn't know what she'll end up choosing.