Everyone knows that one of the best things about being an anime fan is collecting merch of our favorite series and characters. During Anime Expo’s highly-anticipated panel about Cour 3 of Bleach: The Thousand Year Blood War, many announcements were made, including an October 2024 air date. And, of course, new figures!

Though the new figures of Renji Abarai and Yhwach—the big baddie Quincy of this final arc of Bleach—are sure to attract fans, the gem of the panel was the reveal of the Bankai figures.

Bankai refers to the power that allows a Soul Reaper to release their true abilities. The power was first introduced in the Soul Society arc, where Ichigo, despite all odds, learns to master Bankai in a short amount of time. Most Soul Reapers, aside from captains and a few lieutenants, take years to reach this state. Each Bankai has unique powers and abilities that truly set their users apart from other Soul Reapers.

Fans Say “Bankai!”

Fans were treated to a photo of the two new figures, but that wasn’t all! During the panel, the moderators displayed the finished products, showing the figures in all their glory. Both were stunning, detailing the amazing features of Renji and Rukia’s Bankais. Though Renji fans will surely rejoice about this new addition to their collections, the true gem of the panel was Rukia.

First seen in The Thousand-Year Blood War Arc, Rukia first unleashes her Bankai against Nodt, a terrifying Quincy who seems to get the better of the fan-favorite character. Overcoming her fear, Rukia utters, “Bankai. Hakka no Togame.” With her newfound power, she freezes Nodt and ends her enemy.

Just as the figure depicts, Rukia wears a gorgeous white dress that seems to be made of ice. Her hair has turned white, and just as her Zanpakuto, Sode No Shirayuki, is the most beautiful in the Soul Society, it is clear that her Bankai shares that honor. 

There is no news as to when the figures will be released, but once Bankai Rukia is available for sale, you can bet she will be the most gorgeous one in any collection.

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