Bankai is the ability to release the Shinigami’s Zanpakuto in Bleach. This technique is usually the ultimate trump card used against formidable opponents. However, Bankai has quite some problems, may it be terrible alignment with the user, a complex activation process, or the lack of offensive power. This can be understood with the scenario of Gotei 13. Their Bankai are nothing but an accessory compared to their actual power. Similarly, there have been several more Bankai throughout the series, which are weak and rather bland.
Kinshara Butodan (Rojuro Otoribashi)
Rose or Rojuro Otoribashi has quite a sophisticated Bankai among the Gotei 13. The technique utilizes music to create illusions that can impact enemies with physical damage. Rose can produce massive whirlpools of water, large amounts of fire, or even make the opponents’ hearts stop pumping. This might seem a pretty overpowered move at first glance. However, its dependency on sound is its biggest weakness. If the enemy decides to void their hearing, then this Bankai becomes ineffective.
Ryumon Hozukimaru (Ikkaku Madarame)
Ikkaku Madarame is excellent at close combat, and his Bankai has also aligned with his combat style. The technique involves two weapons, a Chinese monk’s space, and a guandao, attached by chains that connect down the center portion, which is shaped like an axe that hovers over Ikkaku’s back. Despite the rugged appearance of his move, it doesn’t offer much offensive or defensive abilities. The weapons also break while in combat, which makes the Bankai rather bland and useless.
Hihio Zabimaru (Renji Abarai)
Renji’s false Bankai was quite the eye candy when first introduced to the viewers. It’s another extension-based ability that features a skeletal whip-like form, reaching its peak in a snake skull. During his battle against Byakuya during the Soul Society Arc, it was one of the most prominent features. Due to having such a massive reach, Renji often stands ineffective in close combat. Due to the loss of its slicing abilities, it performs nothing more than grabbing or crushing opponents.
Kamishini no Yari (Gin Ichimaru)
Ichimaru is mainly considered a genius in the Soul Society. It was because of high intellect he made it that far in Bleach with such an underpowered Bankai. His Bankai is dependent upon his Shikai, which is the ability to extend his blade at massive speeds. Considering the fact that he has lied regarding the maximum length and speed, the technique in itself is pretty weak. But thanks to Gin’s mastery of his skills and his high wits, he was able to execute this technique flawlessly.
Suzumushi Tsuishiki: Enma Korogi (Kaname Tosen)
Tosen’s Bankai involves a usual Bleach Katana Zankaputo and a secondary weapon, which becomes a massive dark dome capable of absorbing energy. Despite its massive size and ominous vibes, this dome is highly vulnerable to touch. This renders the Bankai ineffective towards anyone who makes physical contact with it. Tosen’s Bankai also doesn’t work on deaf enemies.
Senbonzakura Kageyoshi (Byakuya Kuchiki)
Byakuya’s Bankai is similar to his Shikai. Despite having a significant area of effect, the prior fact renders this technique ineffective. His Bankai produces 2000 tiny blades as soon as he drops his sword, which flies towards the opponents. This Bankai has an area that enemies can exploit, called the Hurtless Area. Considering he is the 6th Division Captain, rather than having an overpowered and intimidating power, his power is dull, according to the viewers.
