A Shibuya Incident Arc spinoff horror manga has more potential than Jujutsu Kaisen fans think

The Shibuya Incident Arc in Jujutsu Kaisen was one of the series' most anticipated arcs for the anime. If it wasn't excellent enough in the manga, MAPPA took the experience to whole new level when it got animated. The tension, the fear, the helpless and the story progression were combined and blended well to create an unforgettable experience.

With the manga currently concluded, looking back, a convincing case can be made for the Shibuya Incident being turned into a spinoff horror manga. This can be viewed as an intriguing "what if" idea that would definitely carry potential. It would be looked at through a lens of someone not as strong as the likes of Gojo, Sukuna or the other sorcerers and Curses.

Disclaimer: This article reflects the writer's opinion.

Jujutsu Kaisen: A Shibuya Incident horror manga would do well as a spinoff

To begin with, Jujutsu Kaisen's Shibuya Incident was one of the most gruelling and intense events in the story. Beginning with the revelation of Kokichi Muta aka Mechamaru as a mole at Jujutsu High, the events follows Kenjaku and the Disaster Curses' ploy to seal away Gojo. This was a well-planned and executed strategy to sideline the Six Eyes user for a grander scheme.

The happenings during this incident aren't less terrifying. For one, Curses flooded Shibuya Station and killed innocents in an attempt to derail Gojo. Outside, Mahoraga and Sukuna engaged in a destructive battle that leveled parts of the city. This was further worsened when Sukuna took on Jogo as well, the bout annihilating another half of Shibuya.

It is all this death and destruction that would make the Shibuya Incident Arc a great horror spinoff Jujutsu Kaisen manga. Rather from the perspective of the protagonists, it could focus on what non-sorcerers and/or low grade sorcerers witnessed. The sheer darkness, chaos and emotion of it all would be a major selling point.

Gojo Satoru faces the Prison Realm (Image via MAPPA)

Moreover, it is from this arc that the stakes were raised, death became constant and moral ambiguity flourished in Jujutsu Kaisen. The atmosphere of the entire setting itself screamed horror, from the viewpoint of those not as powerful as the likes of individuals like Gojo, Sukuna, Yuji, Jogo, Megumi and others. To them, there was simply a sudden flurry of unavoidable pandemonium and decimation.

Despir, distortion and psychological breakdown - these would be the driving elements of the spinoff. Given how twisted and disturbing the arc was, it would offer a unique take on the horror genre, perhaps bettering typical Shonen series in the same category. Not to mention, being a civilian or a low-grade socerer would be beyond nightmarish in a scenario like this.

Think Junji Ito meets Jujutsu Kaisen - a disturbing blend of action, mayhem and trepidation. Not to mention, there would be grotesque imagery, mounting paranoia, supernatural trauma, and a hopeless scramble for survival. If ever put into action, a spinoff manga of just the Shibuya Incident in Jujutsu Kaisen would carry immense emotional weight and tension.

Final Thoughts

The Shibuya Incident is undeniably a dark and an unforgettable segment in the series. As for its potential as a horror spinoff manga, it can only be called immense. By merely looking at the event through a different lens, i.e., those of the civilians caught up in or low-grade Jujutsu users, the brutal and chaotic nature of the arc take on a terrifying new look.

Helplessness, psychological trauma, and ever-growing dread - existing elements in the main plot - would be heightened and fit well in a genre that feeds off of fear and unpredictability. Such a development would present a renewed take on a brilliant series whilst elevating the subsisting horror elements of the original narrative.

Given the appropriate creative direction, the spinoff could delve into moral ambiguity, survivor’s guilt, and the mostrous nature of Curses. Put simply, a Shibuya Incident horror spinoff could deliver something truly remarkable.

Related links:

About the author

Casey has been an anime writer at Sportskeeda since almost a year. Being drawn into the world of animanga after watching the Dragon Ball series almost a decade ago, Casey's interest in the genre, along with his love of crafting plot theories influenced his writerly endeavors. Presently pursuing a Master's degree in International Business, Casey worked for Uneake and FootballExpress for 1.3 years before joining Sportskeeda.

Casey's writings reflect his commitment to producing the most reliable content, evidenced by his flair for in-depth reporting. He places a high value on meticulous research and complete factual accuracy.

Although it was legendary Akira Toriyama’s magnum opus that influenced his love of animanga, Casey soon branched out and explored other titles. The unique ways in which mangakas express ideas, as well as their far-reaching effects, have inspired Casey in his creative pursuits.

When not busy writing, Casey enjoys working out, listening to music, strumming the guitar, and playing football.

Know More

Edited by Casey Mendez