Yu Yu Hakusho is one of the great anime classics that still excites anime lovers of all ages. The weapons and abilities used in the series still stand out as some of the best. Every whip in anime will inevitably get compared to Kurama's Rose Whip, while no third eye has ever looked as cool as Hiei's. And of course, who could ever forget Yusuke's famous Spirit Gun?
Though it's arguable which weapon in the series is the most iconic, there's no mistaking that Kuwabara's Dimensional Sword deserves its own time in the spotlight. Let's take a look at what makes this sword special.
Why Does Kuwabara Have the Sword?
Of all the weapons and powers displayed in the show, it's evident that the Dimensional Sword is in a league of its own. So why, out of all the characters, did Kuwabara have it?
The answer may simply be because of his original Spirit Sword. A person with strong spiritual powers may harness it and use it as a weapon. In his case, Kuwabara created a Spirit Sword because of his desperation to protect himself from Musashi's final attack. Having been on the receiving end of the ninja's attacks for almost the entire duration of their battle, it was a make or break moment for him.
Genkai explains in detail to Yusuke during episode 10 of the first season, that what Kuwabara has just manifested is a materialization ability. Her actual words are, according to FUNimation's translation, "when faced with real danger, his strong spiritual powers guided him to create a sword of light, an actual, physical object in reality." Although Kuwabara initially needed a catalyst, a part of Musashi's holy sword, the blade itself is his power. It is his very will brought to life.
What is the Dimension Sword?
The Dimension Sword is another form of Kuwabara's original Spirit Sword. As the name suggests, it can cut through dimensions. It's not only stronger but also looks different from the Spirit Sword, as it has a cleaner, more defined appearance. It can cut through anything and everything in its path. Additionally, it can cut through space, allowing Kuwabara to transport himself from one area to another.
The last fight with Sensui is a testament to the strength of the sword. While the mighty former detective receives Hie and Kurama's attacks effortlessly, the only ones he evaded were from the Kuwabara. This avoidance implies that not even he would be able to deflect the power and effects of the sword.
How did Kuwabara get the Dimension Sword?
The sword's first appearance was when Sensui Seven-member Seaman (also known as Kiyoshi Mitarai) attacked Kuwabara and his friends on their way to karaoke. Seaman used his powers to capture and beat them up. Having been unable to produce his Spirit Sword for some time, Kuwabara cannot defend or save his friends from the enemy. Eventually, Seaman traps all of them inside his water dimension to kill them. As Kuwabara and his friends' lives are on the brink of death, out of anguish and despair, he is finally able to unleash a new sword. This new sword not only frees them but reaches and defeats Seaman as well.
In both instances, the swords came to Kuwabara under dire situations and were what he needed to stay alive and defeat his enemies. In this aspect, his swords are seen, in essence, as extensions of his will. They are reflections of him as a person, and his need to protect his loved ones. The Dimension Sword was born because of his urgent need to save his friends. Hence, it's safe to say that if the strong desire to protect is the prerequisite to creating a Dimension Sword, then Kuwabra is indeed worthy of holding such great power.