Is Hikone from Bleach a Canon Character?

The question of whether Hikone, often mentioned in fan discussions, is a canon character in Bleach, brings up a complex web of fan theories and the collaborative work between Tite Kubo and other mangaka. This article will explore the evidence and the creators' intention behind the creation of the Hikone character, examining why fans believe it's a canon character and the role it plays in the Bleach universe.

Canon Definition and Context

In the world of Bleach, what constitutes a canon character has often been the subject of debate. Dubious elements, such as OVA episodes, game characters, and tie-in novels, have sometimes been labeled as 'non-canonical' due to their inconsistencies with the main storyline. However, in a strict sense, a character is considered canon if it originates from the official manga or anime series created by the original author, Tite Kubo.

Origins of the Hikone Character Theory

The premise that Hikone is a canon character in Bleach began with the novel Ao no Hi de Noroshi, Tarou ni Shoukan ha Nai (Even in Blue Skies, I Will Not Sign a Confession; translated as Confessions in English) which is written by Nobuyuki Narita. This novel is known for its humorous and surreal interactions between the characters, including Hikone, who is a mandrill-like homunculus. The story is said to have been developed in collaboration with Tite Kubo, who himself is known for his openness to fan works and supporting creations that align well with his original work.

Why Fans Consider Hikone as a Canon Character

One of the primary reasons why fans believe Hikone is a canon character is the level of detail included in the novel. Hikone, while originally from a tie-in novel, is depicted with realistic names, appearances, and backstories. Plus, she appears to be closely associated with characters such as Kenpachi Zaraki, a major canon figure in the Bleach universe. Many fans argue that the novel provides enough backstory and context to make Hikone feel like an integral part of the Bleach world.

Supporting Evidence from Tite Kubo

Tite Kubo's support for Confessions and other fan works that align with his vision for the Bleach world significantly strengthens the argument of Hikone as a canon character. In a 2016 interview with OneShot Magazine, Kubo admitted that he approved of the inclusion of Hikone in Confessions, as well as in another novel called Rei's Runaway Diary. This acknowledgment implies a level of acceptance for such characters being part of the extended Bleach universe, provided they are well-suited and respectful to the original work.

Conclusion

While Hikone originates from a series of tie-in novels by Nobuyuki Narita, the extensive collaboration between Kubo and Narita, as well as Kubo's explicit support of such works, create a strong case for considering Hikone as a canon character in the Bleach universe. Whether she is formally recognized as a canon character by publishers remains to be seen, but her inclusion in popular fan discussions and her role in connecting various plots in the Bleach universe make her an integral and beloved part of the community.

Further Reading and Discussion

To learn more about the impact of fan works on the Bleach series and to delve deeper into the theories and discussions surrounding Hikone's status, consider reading the original Confessions series as well as related fan analyses and forums dedicated to Bleach fan works. Your understanding of the gangly and mischievous Hikone will only deepen with such exploration.