With each new chapter of Chainsaw Man , Tatsuki Fujimoto proves he's always one step ahead of his readers. In chapter 198, a shocking twist shook the fanbase: the girl many believed to be Death was actually Famine, while Death was disguised as her sister, Fami.
- Kagurabachi 74: Samura appears from the heavens and prepares a confrontation between three swordsmen
- To Be Hero X Ep. 1: Surreal and ready to be the best of the season
This revelation not only debunked several theories but also rekindled memories of Makima's iconic arc—the Controller. Now, everything indicates that we're about to plunge back into a cycle of manipulation, loss, and transformation.
Death Follows in Makima's Footsteps: A Dark and Intentional Parallel
It's no coincidence that the narrative structure of Chapter 198 directly harks back to the moment Makima revealed her true identity as the Control Demon. Just as in Part I, where the mystery surrounding Makima culminated in catastrophic events for Denji and his allies, we now have a new element of tension: the revelation that Death was already present among the characters—hidden in plain sight.
Fujimoto once again uses deception as a narrative device, mirroring the previous villain's trajectory to build an atmosphere of unpredictability and anxiety. The manipulation of Death's identity and the reversal with Famine create not only a moment of shock, but also a narrative trigger that promises to unleash a sequence of violent and emotional events.
Remembering Makima: a cycle that repeats itself in Chainsaw Man?
In Part I of Chainsaw Man, the conflict reached its peak when Aki was possessed and attacked Denji, creating one of the series' most tragic scenes. Shortly thereafter, Power was brutally murdered by Makima—an act that emotionally shattered the protagonist. If Death follows the same path of control, manipulation, and destruction, we may see other characters suffer similar losses.
Furthermore, the previous plot culminated in the release of Denji's "Hero of Hell" form. Considering that we're dealing with a Horseman of the Apocalypse again, there's a strong possibility that new transformations will emerge. The presence of Death, with its hidden potential, could serve as a catalyst for the release of true powers that characters like Yoru, Fami, and even Nayuta still hide.
Transformations in sight: the true power of the Knights
A recurring theme in Chainsaw Man is that appearances can be deceiving—literally. Even Pochita, the original Chainsaw Demon, disguised himself as a harmless puppy. If we apply this logic to the Four Horsemen, it's plausible that their current forms are just facades. And chapter 198 already begins to suggest this.
Yoru, War, with his unpredictable and aggressive nature, is the prime candidate to reveal a more powerful form. But Death, now fully unmasked, will certainly play an even more destructive role. If the three Horsewomen—Death, Famine, and War—decide to act together or in direct conflict, we are facing a new apocalyptic war.
Furthermore, Nayuta's return cannot be ruled out. Makima's reincarnation, now under Denji's tutelage, could represent a key piece in this new puzzle. If she intervenes, we may see an attempt to prevent history from repeating itself—or, ironically, to complete it.
Denji's Future: Redemption, Ruin, or Repetition?
Denji's position remains one of the biggest mysteries. He's been manipulated, betrayed, and emotionally shattered. With the chaos wrought by the Knights returning, is he ready to face a new wave of losses? Or will we see a more mature Denji, one who can anticipate the manipulations?
There are signs that Fujimoto is building an arc similar to that of Part I, but with new nuances. The difference now is that Denji carries with him memories and scars. He is no longer the naive boy who sought a normal life. Perhaps it is precisely this growth that prepares him for a new clash—this time against Death himself.
A new apocalypse lurking in Chainsaw Man?
Chapter 198 of Chainsaw Man reignites the flame of a storyline many believed had already reached its climax. With the revelation of Death and the reminder of Makima's impact, everything indicates that the plot is about to plunge once again into a sea of chaos, loss, and surprises. Fujimoto continues to play with readers' expectations, delivering not only action but also deep layers of symbolism and psychological drama.
If history truly follows in the footsteps of the past, we can expect not only epic struggles, but also an intense journey of growth, sacrifice, and perhaps redemption. The stage is set—and the Four Horsemen are about to dance once more.
