Ignoring The Memes, Is Kagurabachi Good?

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Kagurabachi is one of Shonen Jump’s latest series, and at the time of writing has just three chapters to read through. Despite that, protagonist Chihiro has become an internet meme sensation. Why? I am honestly not sure.

It might be something to do with Chihiro’s slightly stilted, awkward stance? Maybe it’s the fact that he is yet another anime boy with a sword? Perhaps it’s that gormless expression that is near devoid of emotion. Whatever it is, the internet latched onto it, and with just one chapter to its name, Kagurabachi shot to the top of online popularity polls.

For most online weebs, memes have done more to market this series than Shonen Jump or Shueisha, but there is one key thing that the memes don’t address: is it any good?

Well, three chapters isn’t too much of a time investment, so I jumped in, and… yeah, y’know, seems pretty good. Three manga chapters also isn’t much time to actually develop a story. The pitch is that Chihiro Rokuhira’s father was a legendary blacksmith who crafted six powerful enchanted katana. After the wars died down he had a peaceful life with his son where he pondered what kind of katana the world needed – until sorcerors show up to assassinate him and take the swords for themselves.

But they left behind one sword, the sword that Chihiro worked alongside his father to forge. On that day, he swore to not let people wield katana to hurt people. It’s, y’know… it’s fine.

I quite like Chihiro’s dad Kunishige, but as far as backstories go, it’s just fine. Luckily Chihiro isn’t totally alone, as he has his father’s friend Shiba at his side. Shiba is a sorcerer who’s exact powers and strength aren’t known yet, but he plays the part of the capable and knowledgeable – while incredibly silly – mentor. A lot like Jujutsu Kaisen’s Satoru Gojo, with a bit less flair.

That actually sums up Kagurabachi quite well right now: Jujutsu Kaisen, with a bit less flair. Don’t get me wrong, when action scenes ramp up mangaka Takeru Hokazono’s talents come to life. Chihiro’s pose on the cover might be awkward, but action scenes are anything but, looking smooth and fluid, perfectly conveying the speed and finesse on display.

Chihiro’s sword is also enchanted, of course, and its power is symbolised by three goldfish that he raised with his father – these fish swim around the hilt of the sword when he draws it, and larger slashes and embodied by a larger goldfish swimming around the motion. It’s striking and looks great, honestly.

Chihiro might look like the epitome of a generic anime hero, and his backstory doesn’t do much to change that either, but as long as Hokazono-san has a grand adventure in mind for Chihiro to go on, then I think Kagurabachi just might end up being good. Maybe.