Chainsaw Man Part 2: The Darker Side of Asa’s Payback on Yoru

Despite receiving mixed reactions from the manga and anime community, Chainsaw Man Part 2 has been the subject of much discussion. Many fans have expressed their dissatisfaction with the pacing and lack of direction in the plot, but one aspect that remains undeniable is author Tatsuki Fujimoto’s decision to take a darker and more psychological approach to this part, setting it apart from the tone of the first.

Despite the dark and cynical elements present in the first series, Chainsaw Man Part 2 portrays the characters facing their trauma and insecurities through moments of self-punishment. As seen in chapter 168 of the manga, such as Asa Mitaka’s payback on Yoru, and other scenes throughout, this perspective is reinforced.

Please be advised that this article includes spoilers for the Chainsaw Man series.

Explaining why Chainsaw Man part 2 is a lot darker than the first one

Denji and Asa have been the protagonists of Chainsaw Man Part 2 (Image via Shueisha)

In Chainsaw Man Part 2, a recurring theme is the characters’ tendency to inflict physical punishment on themselves, particularly Denji and Asa Mitaka, the two main protagonists. These two teenagers have faced numerous challenges and traumatic experiences since childhood, making it difficult for them to form meaningful connections. This is further complicated by their contracts with devils and the consequent involvement in supernatural events.

Denji’s case is highly notable due to his unique ability to transform into a hybrid devil and manifest chainsaws from his limbs and legs. This recurring aspect of the series is accompanied by Denji experiencing immense physical pain. Nevertheless, there are moments when he goes to extreme lengths, such as extracting a chainsaw from his head in order to forget Aki and Power during his fight against the Falling Devil, or transforming into Chainsaw Man in recent chapters to purposely inflict pain on himself during a mental breakdown. These instances demonstrate his extreme determination to endure suffering.

From the very beginning of their relationship, it is clear that Asa Mitaka and Yoru share a similar outlook. This is evident when Yoru teaches Asa by causing harm to herself. This behavior continues in chapter 168, where Asa punishes Yoru for her actions in the infamous chapter 167, further solidifying this theory.

Possible Developments in Chainsaw Man Part 2

It is undeniable that the pacing of Chainsaw Man part 2 has garnered mixed reactions due to its slow progression. However, it appears that the focus will now shift to Denji as he attempts to regain control by eating sushi and addressing Nayuta’s capture. The manga will delve into the uncertainty of Nayuta’s fate, adding to the plot’s development.

Despite being mentioned sporadically, author Tatsuki Fujimoto has yet to fully delve into the impending apocalypse in Chainsaw Man Part 2. This neglected plot point holds potential for further development in the upcoming chapters, although it is uncertain if Fujimoto will choose to explore it.

Final Thoughts

The second part of Chainsaw Man delves even deeper into the characters’ pain and suffering, with much of it being self-inflicted. This is a crucial aspect for both Denji and Asa, and it continues to shape their development in the ongoing manga series.