Chainsaw Man: Denji’s Desires and Yoru’s Fight (Chapter 166)

On Tuesday, May 21, 2024, the highly anticipated Chainsaw Man chapter 166 was finally released. It picked up right where the previous chapter left off, with Denji exploring his newfound freedom after being released from the Tokyo Devil Detention Center. Alongside this, the chapter also delved into Katana Man’s persistent attempts to persuade Denji to ditch their plans of going out to eat and instead visit a brothel to lift his spirits.

In chapter 166 of Chainsaw Man, the reactions of the others to this suggestion were witnessed, with Asa Mitaka taking the lead in opposing the idea due to its lack of necessity. Despite this, Denji’s old tendencies resurface, leading him to make a decision that ultimately makes him realize how little he has truly changed and how little he has truly learned.

The Challenges Ahead for Denji in Chainsaw Man Chapter 166

Chapter 166: A Choice Made in Chainsaw Man

The 166th chapter of Chainsaw Man opens with Katana Man elaborating on his offer, claiming that he possesses a soapland brothel where he can bring Denji. Asa Mitaka attempts to advocate for Denji by asserting that he is not interested, and asks him to confirm this. However, to her surprise, Denji is genuinely lost in thought, as she reminds him of the importance of sustenance in order to have the strength to search for Nayuta.

Denji shares with Asa that he has not been able to find relief recently and wonders if this is a symptom of depression. Asa is taken aback and starts shouting, expressing concern for Denji and their efforts to help him. Denji explains that he sees it as a normal bodily function, like feeling hungry or tired, and seeks support from Haruka and Nobana, who are unable to provide it.

In Chainsaw Man chapter 166, Asa accuses Denji of being a shameless pig and doubts his sincerity in caring for Nayuta. Denji insists that he does care, but struggles to give a satisfying explanation for his actions. The scene then shifts to a shocked Katana Man, who is standing outside the remains of his soapland brothel. Asa finds the situation amusing and laughs at the unexpected turn of events.

Despite this, it starts to rain, causing Asa to declare that she doesn’t care about the food they eat as long as they get something immediately. Denji, who is in shock, stares at the wreckage before collapsing to the ground, wondering why he can’t focus on what’s important even in the face of horrific events.

In chapter 166 of Chainsaw Man, Denji admits that he only claimed to be Chainsaw Man for attention and admiration. He confesses that he was hoping to attract women and reap the rewards that came with it. Denji angrily punches the ground as he berates himself for his selfish thoughts, causing Nobana Higashiyama to laugh. Denji then snaps at Nobana, insisting that it’s not a laughing matter.

Despite the ongoing rain, Denji’s curses towards himself, a specific body part he can’t seem to control, and the state of his surroundings continue. Onlookers gaze curiously as Nobana and Haruka tentatively make their way towards him. Famine Devil Fami pays no attention, while Asa observes from afar. The chapter concludes with War Devil Yoru possessing Asa’s body and threatening to remove the aforementioned body part if Denji truly despises it that much.

In summation

Despite being a brief and uneventful chapter, Chainsaw Man chapter 166 plays a crucial role in Denji’s character development within the current state of the series. By pushing himself to new depths in the midst of a difficult situation, it allows Denji to come to a realization about his true aspirations and sets the stage for significant growth.

The issue effectively hints at Denji’s realization of his true motivations for wanting to be the series’ titular hero. By acknowledging the truth of his desire, he can now delve into the underlying reasons for it and his yearning for intimacy. It is possible that this will lead to Denji and Asa coming to terms with their mutual feelings by the end of the chapter, although it may take some time given the pacing of this week’s issue.