Fujimoto in trouble with Chainsaw Man fans after chapter 167

After the latest chapter of Chainsaw Man was released on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, fans were taken aback by the unexpected interaction between Denji and War Devil Yoru.

Despite some criticism towards Fujimoto’s approach in chapter 167, other fans are directing their attention towards the consequences it will have on the two main protagonists, Denji and Asa Mitaka. The event that unfolds in this chapter is expected to have a profound and traumatic effect on both characters, leading to intense and immediate reactions from Chainsaw Man fans.

Despite the differing opinions, it is evident that the majority, if not all, of the Chainsaw Man fanbase shares similar sentiments towards the recent developments in the manga series. Even though some may still express positivity amidst their critiques or questions for Fujimoto, it is apparent that the fans have some concerns with the mangaka.

Chainsaw Man Chapter 167’s Depiction of Character Regression and Inclusion of Trauma Sparks Backlash from Fans

Despite the fact that Chainsaw Man fans have expressed their disappointment with Fujimoto, the main cause of their frustration lies in the impact of this chapter on Denji and Asa Mitaka’s character development. In essence, War Devil Yoru forces the two into a physical encounter without their consent, ultimately taking control of Asa’s body.

Yoru’s actions of placing the pair in a situation they did not agree to or want (based on current fan knowledge) and then abandoning them to handle the resulting trauma is causing their characters to regress. This is particularly concerning considering Asa had just come to terms with her feelings for Denji after he revealed himself as the titular hero, a plot point that had been building up in recent issues since his awakening.

In the meantime, Denji was already experiencing remorse for putting his own carnal desires before rescuing his adoptive sister, Control Devil Nayuta. If his desires were fulfilled, it could trigger a self-perpetuating cycle of self-hatred for his actions, causing him to continuously seek happiness through these actions. Ultimately, this could result in Denji reaching his lowest point mentally and emotionally in the second part of Chainsaw Man.

Fan reaction

Similarly, readers are reacting to these recent developments in the manga with a specific focus in mind. The main concern for many is the impact it will have on Denji’s psychological well-being.

“istg denji needs a good therapist and a long a** vacation this boys been through too much,” stated one fan.

“denji your mangaka is a sick man with sick thoughts…” parodied another in a reference to Kendrick Lamar’s Meet the Grahams diss track.

One fan even expressed their desire to simply reject the issue’s events, claiming “#CSM167 WAS JUST DENJI’S IMAGINATION.”

As previously stated, there are others who are also targeting Fujimoto, expressing dissatisfaction with the direction in which the author is taking his manga.

“FUJIMOTO WHEN I SEE YOU DAWG I SWEAR ON MY LIFE IT’S ON SIGHT,” shouted one netizen.

“how I felt reading this entire chapter…. Fujimoto u will be dealt with [crying emoji],” claimed one fan in a caption to an attached video meme.

“FUJIMOTO WHAT ARE YOU DOING,” questioned a third.

As previously mentioned, there are also individuals who are expressing their admiration for the matter:

“Man I think I’m the only one who liked the new csm chapter I really digged how ugly and awkward it was and I’m sure it’ll lead to great character moments in the future #csm167,” posted one X user.

“i liked CSM this week but this is totally a “are you with me or not” chapter and i don’t think a lot of people will be on board with it and what’s to come,” shared another.

Despite the reasons for its divisiveness, it is evident that the latest issue of the series has caused a great divide among readers. The impact on Denji and Asa plays a significant role, but it is also the graphic nature and portrayal of events by Fujimoto that has contributed to the controversy. While it is possible that Fujimoto intentionally aimed to provoke strong reactions from readers, many loyal fans are still expressing their discontent with these elements.