Bleach!

I remember like a week ago someone on the IRC channel was saying Zaraki was ridiculously overpowered, by the fact that he took on Byakuya (a super-powered clone?) or something along those lines. I started thinking about this last night:

Let's look at the character history:

Byakuya is the son of one of the highest noble families in Soul Society, so he has access to many great privileges-- the best tutors in both kendo, kido, etc. He is a "genius," as most nobles are seen when it comes to their talent. He has pride and conviction, and doesn't tend to stray from guidelines. His speed is only second to Yoruichi (Ichigo's bankai?) He probably obtained bankai without much struggle.

Zaraki comes from District 80, the most lawless district surrounding Soul Society. He had no tutors, no luxuries. He not only fought to live, but he lives to fight- blood-lust. His swordsmanship is unique to his own, with the benefit of going up against maybe every style known. His spiritual pressure is immense and because he lacks the bond with his zanpakuto, serves as his greatest weapon.

When it comes to anime, you must see it within the reality that which is presented. Unlike live-action, these are not actors portraying a diff. reality; this is their reality. Zaraki is a captain, and so is Byakuya. The fact that he not only could stand toe-to-toe with him, and seemingly be winning should be of no surprise. He has a history of defeating captains. I'm not saying Byakuya is weak, far from it. Just don't hate what you obviously don't understand.