Bleach is one of the most popular anime franchises today, particularly known for its outstanding adaptation of the final arc. Although the anime adaptation of Bleach appears quite faithful at first glance, there are several changes that long-time fans may notice if they pay closer attention to the events occurring throughout many arcs of Bleach.
In general, these changes have been met with mixed reactions from audiences and have significantly impacted how the anime is perceived by viewers.
8. Yuzu can sense spirits – a detail not shown in the Bleach anime
In the anime, Yuzu, Karin’s twin sister, is not depicted as having a clear awareness of the existence of spirits. She is often overlooked in the Kurosaki family.
The manga version does a better job of portraying her connection with the family line and the spiritual realm. Despite not being able to see spirits, Yuzu can perceive the forms of other beings. This detail is a noteworthy aspect of the manga that has been omitted in the anime.
7. Kukaku has an additional arm in the anime
In the manga, Kukaku’s right arm is missing, a detail that has been altered in the anime. To compensate for the missing limb, the anime provides Kukaku with a prosthetic arm.
6. Yhwach’s different appearance upon introduction
The Thousand-Year Blood War arc does not waste time introducing Yhwach – one of the most intriguing characters in the series. The Quincy King leads an invasion of the Soul Society and quickly becomes one of the strongest characters in the series as his power continues to grow.
In the manga, when he first appears, this character has a much younger appearance, resembling Old Man Zangetsu. As the story progresses, Yhwach’s appearance becomes older and more rugged.
However, in the anime version, from the very beginning, Yhwach looks quite aged and resembles a typical old man throughout the episodes of the Thousand-Year Blood War.
5. Isshin’s role is less prominent at the start of the anime
Isshin Kurosaki is one of the most important characters in the storyline, as this shinigami becomes involved in a tragic love affair with a Quincy that leads to Ichigo’s birth. As Bleach progresses, Isshin’s character takes on a much more serious tone.
In the manga, Isshin has several moments where he offers heartfelt advice to his family, amidst his humorous antics. This aspect was cut from the anime, making him appear as a more significant shinigami than a typical father figure. As a result, many fans feel that Isshin is depicted as a forgetful and neglectful father in the anime.
4. The death of Lilynette is significantly altered
Lilynette is one of the few original characters that Espada Stark possesses. This raises questions about why Stark appears to be so vulnerable in the anime when his loyal companion transforms into a wolf and sacrifices herself to save him during Kyoraku’s assault.
However, the details surrounding Lilynette’s death in the manga are quite different. In fact, she survives the battle until the very end when Kyoraku defeats both her and Stark simultaneously. This makes her death a poignant moment for the audience as they witness their final moments together.
3. The timing of Kanae Katagiri’s death is changed
Kanae Katagiri is Uryu’s mother and a character who does not appear frequently on screen until the Thousand-Year Blood War. Her tragic fate becomes a central theme in the Auswahlen arc, showcasing her interaction with the Quincy as they absorb the energy of souls and the subsequent impact of her death.
When Yhwach unleashes this power in the past, the anime depicts Kanae dying almost immediately after this invasion is activated. However, in the manga, she remains in a state of bliss for three months before passing away. This alteration seems to serve the anime’s fast-paced and captivating narrative.
2. Byakuya notices how Ichigo resembles Kaien during their battle in the manga
Rukia’s emotional connection to Ichigo is a recurring theme noted throughout the early chapters of Bleach. Ichigo’s resemblance to Kaien helps Rukia make her decisions more easily, even when faced with the emotional turmoil that comes with forming bonds.
When Ichigo arrives to save Rukia, Byakuya observes Ichigo’s appearance and fighting style, noting their similarities to Kaien during the battle. This detail, though subtle, plays a significant role in the manga, adding depth to Rukia’s motivations and actions.
1. The Bleach anime adds many scenes that Kubo did not detail
Kubo may have his shortcomings as a mangaka, but one thing that fans should recognize is that he is an exceptionally talented artist. His works often lack extensive backgrounds, focusing instead on character actions. This is likely why many viewers felt disoriented by the absence of detailed scenes in the action sequences of the manga.
In contrast, the anime has filled in many of these gaps, adding numerous scenes to nearly all battles in Bleach, which creates a significant impact on the overall experience.
