Jujutsu Kaisen season 3 is right not to air in 2025, and its potential is why

Modified Jan 01, 2025 12:30 GMT

An air date beyond 2025 is the right choice (Image via MAPPA)

The hype for Jujutsu Kaisen season 3 is at an all-time high following the conclusion of season 2 in 2024. Fans are eagerly awaiting the next bit of Gege Akutami’s gripping narrative. The decision to not release the third installment of the franchise in 2025 is a correct step. Undoubtedly, extended durations between seasons spark frustration, but the reason for it is likely strategic.

This would be to ensure that the series reaches its maximum potential. Season 2 brought emotional depth and high-octane action, setting the standard quite high. This leaves animation giant MAPPA Studios with a mammoth task of delivering a worthy follow-up. Taking more time allows the creators to further enhance the storytelling, animation, and pacing—elements that set Jujutsu Kaisen apart.

Disclaimer: This article reflects the sole opinion of the author.

Jujutsu Kaisen season 3: An air date beyond 2025 is the right choice

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Presently, not much is known of Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3's status. At the end of the second season, fans were treated to a teasing glimpse of what is to come, i.e., the Culling Games Arc. But other than a very brief teaser, Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 remains largely the subject of massive speculation. When taking a step back to judge, this looks to be a good decision by the creators.

For starters, not announcing much about the third season takes immense pressure off animating studio MAPPA. Given how well the first and second seasons performed, expectations for the third are higher than ever. The studio seemingly went above and beyond to deliver Season 2 in terms of pacing, attention to detail, animation style, and overall storytelling.

This highlighted MAPPA's ability to create the extraordinary and further cemented its name among the best. With no solid information on Jujutsu Kaisen season 3, MAPPA has likely bought itself more time to further enhance and do justice to Akutami's magnum opus. This is especially true since the Culling Games Arc is one of the story's major arcs and a vital part of the narrative.

Furthermore, this arc witnesses a number of thrilling and adrenaline-pumping battles whilst bringing in a host of new characters. Those who haven't read the manga will be introduced to unfamiliar faces and be treated to a range of mind-boggling techniques and abilities. Fan favorites like Kinji Hakari and Kirara Hoshi are speculated to make their long-awaited anime debuts.

Importantly, to be noted, the initial bits of Jujutsu Kaisen season 3 will need to adapt the mini arcs before the Culling Games: Itadori's Extermination Arc (kicked off at the tail end of season 2) and Perfect Preparation Arc. These will witness the return of Yuta Okkotsu and Team Jujutsu High banding together to ready themselves for the Culling Games and free Gojo Satoru.

Another reason for not announcing Jujutsu Kaisen season 3 for a 2025 release could be pacing—the Culling Games Arc is the longest (63 chapters), following which the final battle, i.e., the Shinjuku Showdown Arc, begins. MAPPA will need to plan carefully so as not to disrupt the pacing it has maintained so far, which, needless to say, will take a little more time.

Also, at the moment, the studio is also busy with the Chainsaw Man movie and bringing the Hidden Inventory/Premature Death compilation movie to theaters in May 2025. All these reasons put together justify a likely 2026 release for Jujutsu Kaisen season 3.

Final Thoughts

The decision to air Jujutsu Kaisen season 3 later than 2025 reflects a calculated step by MAPPA Studios to uphold the series’ high standards. Season 2’s success raised audience expectations considerably, and delivering a satisfying follow-up requires diligent planning.

As mentioned, the Culling Games Arc is one that introduces complex characters, intense battles, and critical narrative developments that need exceptional attention to detail. Taking more time allows MAPPA to ensure that these elements are done justice to.

Additionally, the studio balancing other high-profile projects further justifies season 3's delayed release. All in all, the long might keep fans at the edge of their seats for the tiniest updates but also promises a richer and more impactful experience.