OVA
Description
In the anime special Bleach: The Sealed Sword Frenzy, Hitsugaya Toushirou appears as the young captain of the 10th Division in the Gotei 13. The special portrays him as a prodigy, having achieved the rank of captain at an exceptionally young age by Soul Society's standards, a testament to his immense natural talent and mastery of his ice-based Zanpakutō, Hyōrinmaru.

Hitsugaya is characterized by a serious, mature, and highly responsible nature, which often contrasts sharply with his youthful appearance. He is shown to be easily irritated by silliness or any behavior that draws unnecessary attention, and he deeply resents being treated like a child or having his short stature pointed out. Despite this, he carries out his duties with a high level of professionalism. His motivations are rooted in a strong sense of duty as a captain and a fierce protectiveness over those close to him, particularly his childhood friend, Momo Hinamori.

In the story of The Sealed Sword Frenzy, Hitsugaya is dispatched to the human world alongside other Soul Society officers, including Renji Abarai, Hanatarou Yamada, Yoruichi Shihouin, and several fellow captains. Their mission is to stop the rogue Shinigami Baishin, a powerful being who has fused with his Zanpakutō and escaped from a centuries-long seal. He participates in the efforts to locate and neutralize this threat, showcasing his authority and combat capability within the group sent to handle the crisis. The special also offers a small glimpse into his personality during the ending credits, where he is seen in the human world dressed in a school uniform, appearing uncomfortable and needing to be coaxed out of hiding by Hinamori, highlighting his disdain for childish things and his reliance on his old friend.

Key relationships are briefly touched upon, including his bond with Hinamori, whom he is very protective of, and his subordinate, Rangiku Matsumoto, whose carefree attitude often clashes with his own serious demeanor. His abilities remain consistent with his established power set. He wields Hyōrinmaru, the strongest ice-element Zanpakutō in Soul Society. In its initial released state, it allows him to command ice and water, often manifesting as a frozen dragon. His bankai, Daiguren Hyōrinmaru, is an advanced ability that encases him in ice, granting him wings, a tail, and the power to perform devastating freezing techniques. The special reinforces his portrayal as a naturally gifted and powerful leader, carrying the weight of his title while navigating the personal annoyances of being mistaken for a child.