The latest episode of the popular anime series Jujutsu Kaisen has garnered a mixed reception from fans, following its release on January 15, 2026. The series, which has previously delighted viewers with its action-packed storytelling, faced criticism as the recent installment received a rating of 7.7 on IMDb. Although this rating improved slightly to 7.8 over time, it remains one of the lowest scores the show has seen to date.
This season marks a significant turn for the series, as it deals with the consequences of the catastrophic Shibuya Incident, which resulted in substantial civilian casualties. The narrative follows the collapse of the Jujutsu society, where the Elders have resorted to labeling Satoru Gojo a traitor while issuing a new execution order for Yuji Itadori.
Story Development and Audience Reactions
The season premiered with an hour-long special that showcased the first two episodes, receiving widespread acclaim from viewers. However, the response to the latest episode diverged sharply from this enthusiasm. The episode also received nearly 3,000 dislikes on Crunchyroll, reflecting a notable downturn in viewer satisfaction compared to the premiere episodes.
As a battle Shonen, Jujutsu Kaisen thrives on intense fights and dramatic confrontations. The adaptation by MAPPA and the compelling storytelling by Gege Akutami have previously captivated audiences. Yet, the latest episode focused heavily on exposition rather than action, which may have contributed to its lukewarm reception.
In this episode, characters such as Yuta Okkotsu, Yuki Tsukumo, and Maki Zenin come together to strategize how to rescue Gojo from the Prison Realm. This realm is a special grade cursed object, and the challenges associated with it are more complex than the sorcerers initially anticipated. The episode dedicates significant time to explaining the intricacies of the Culling Game, a deadly battle royale orchestrated by the antagonist Kenjaku.
Looking Ahead: Future Episodes
The Culling Game, which forces all sorcerers—both new and those resurrected as vessels—to participate, adds a layer of tension to the storyline. Given that the rules of the game are lengthy and complex, the emphasis on exposition may have impacted viewer engagement, limiting the thrill that typically characterizes the series.
Fans can look forward to the next episode, which is expected to shift the focus back to action and further develop Maki Zenin‘s character. Early previews suggest that this upcoming installment may revive the series’ momentum and re-engage audiences.
As the season progresses, it remains to be seen how the creators will balance exposition and action to satisfy the expectations of their dedicated fanbase. Viewer feedback will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the narrative direction of Jujutsu Kaisen moving forward.
