ブリーチ Burīchi

A mixed media series from Japan that originated as a manga by Tite Kubo. The series has since spawned countless movies, an animated series, numerous games, and countless graphic novels and manga.

Synopsis

The series centers around the spiritually aware "human" Ichigo Kurosaki. His ability to "see" the spirits of the dead has been with him for years until a chance encounter with the shinigami (soul reaper) Rukia Kuchiki causes him to absorb her power for some time. While she recovers her strength Ichigo takes on her mantle as a temporary shinigami.

From here the series continues to build with Ichigo learning more about himself, gaining phenomenal new powers, making powerful allies and foes, and traveling two and from the Spirit World.

Shinigami are paired with a living, sentient weapon partner known as a zanpakutō that serves to aid them in combat and focus combat abilities. Exceptionally powerful shinigami are able to summon forth a bankai (final release) which is unique to each wielder and zanpakutō, in all cases the result is an exceptionally powerful ability, but the attack puts tremendous strain on the reiatsu (spiritual energy) of the user.

More Information

•Bleach Wiki