In JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run, the Stand Tubular Bells is one of the many intriguing powers introduced in this part of the story. Wielded by Mike O, a minor antagonist and ally to Funny Valentine, Tubular Bells is a Stand with a unique and inventive ability that sets it apart from others in the series. Here’s a closer look at the Stand, its powers, strengths, and drawbacks, as well as a bit about its user.
Who is Mike O?
Mike O is a relatively low-profile character in Steel Ball Run, but he plays an important role as one of Funny Valentine’s henchmen. His past is largely unexplored, but he stands out as someone who is clever and resourceful. Mike O uses Tubular Bells in really smart ways, showing that his real strength lies in how well he understands and utilizes his Stand’s abilities.
Musical Reference
Tubular Bells is named after Mike Oldfield’s iconic album, following the series’ tradition of music-inspired Stand names.
Tubular Bells’ Abilities
This stand has a fascinating and somewhat bizarre power: it allows Mike O to inflate metallic objects as if they were balloons. Once inflated, these metal “balloons” can be shaped into forms resembling animals or other creations. What’s particularly remarkable is that these creations aren’t just static, they behave like the creatures they’re modeled after. For instance, a balloon shaped like a snake will act like a snake, capable of slithering, constricting, and attacking opponents.
This ability has a lot of layers to it:
- Metal Blowing: Mike O can blow into various metallic objects, like screws or fences, and transform them into flexible, balloon-like structures. Despite being made of metal, these balloons have elasticity, can float, and can maneuver into tight spaces.
- Autonomy: The balloons can act independently once they’re created. Mike O can give them basic commands, such as tracking a specific target by scent, or directing them to attack or defend. However, they can also be manipulated unintentionally, if someone else shares the registered scent, for instance, the balloons might target them too.
Strengths of Tubular Bells
- Versatility: The ability to create different animal-shaped balloons offers a broad range of uses in combat. Each shape can serve a specific purpose, whether for attacking, defending, or distracting an opponent. This adaptability gives Mike O plenty of options depending on the situation.
- Surprise Element: Metallic balloons aren’t exactly intimidating at first glance, and many opponents might underestimate them. This makes Tubular Bells an excellent Stand for catching enemies off guard.
- Remote Control: Mike O doesn’t need to be near the balloons to use them effectively. Their autonomous nature allows him to maintain distance and safety while still staying in control of the fight.
Weaknesses of Tubular Bells
- Fragility: Despite being made of metal, the balloons aren’t indestructible. A strong enough attack can pop or destroy them, leaving Mike O vulnerable if he’s relying on them for offense or defense.
- Lack of Physical Strength: Tubular Bells isn’t a Stand built for direct combat. It doesn’t pack the same raw power as some of the series’ more physically dominant Stands, which can be a significant drawback against enemies who rely on brute force.
- User Dependence: The effectiveness of Tubular Bells depends heavily on Mike O’s strategic thinking. Without a creative or tactical approach, the Stand’s potential is limited. It’s not an ability that works on autopilot, Mike O needs to be deliberate and precise with how he uses it.
