With each new chapter of Chainsaw Man , Tatsuki Fujimoto proves that she is always one step ahead of her readers. In chapter 198, a shocking twist shook the fanbase: the girl many believed to be Death was, in fact, Hunger, while Death was disguised as her sister, Fami.
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This revelation not only deconstructed several theories but also rekindled memories of Makima's iconic arc—the Controller. Now, everything indicates that we are about to plunge once again into a cycle of manipulation, loss, and transformation.
Death follows in Makima's footsteps: a dark and intentional parallel
It is no coincidence that the narrative structure of chapter 198 directly references the moment when Makima revealed his 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 trajectory of the previous villain to build an atmosphere of unpredictability and anxiety. The manipulation of Death's identity and the reversal with Hunger create not only a moment of shock, but 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, resulting in one of the series' most tragic scenes. Shortly after, Power was brutally murdered by Makima—an action that emotionally shattered the protagonist. If Death follows the same path of control, manipulation, and destruction, it's possible we'll see new characters suffer similar losses.
Furthermore, the old plot culminated in the release of Denji's "Hero of Hell" form. Considering that we are dealing with a Horseman of the Apocalypse again, there is 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 conceal.
Transformations are on the horizon: the true power of the Knights
A recurring theme in Chainsaw Man is that appearances are 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 merely facades. And chapter 198 already begins to suggest this.
Yoru, the War, with her 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 Horsemen—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 game. If she intervenes, perhaps we will have 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 greatest mysteries. He has already been manipulated, betrayed, and emotionally shattered. With the return of the chaos instigated by the Knights, is he ready to face a new wave of losses? Or will we see a more mature Denji, capable of anticipating the games of manipulation?
There are indications that Fujimoto is building an arc similar to Part I, but with new nuances. The difference now is that Denji carries memories and scars with him. He is no longer the naive boy who sought a normal life. Perhaps it is precisely this growth that prepares him for a new confrontation—this time against Death himself.
Is a new apocalypse lurking in Chainsaw Man?
Chapter 198 of Chainsaw Man reignites the flame of a plot that many believed had already reached its peak. With the revelation of Death and the reminder of the impact Makima caused, everything indicates that the plot is about to plunge once again into a sea of chaos, loss, and surprises. Fujimoto continues to play with the 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 battles, but also an intense journey of maturation, sacrifice, and perhaps redemption. The stage is set—and the Four Horsemen are about to dance once more.