Understanding Aki’s Hatred for the Gun Devil in Chainsaw Man: An Explanation

The Gun Devil is the primary antagonist in the *Chainsaw Man* series. Although the manga does not provide extensive details about this character, it has incited significant animosity within the narrative, particularly after its devastating assault on November 18. This catastrophic event struck Japan, resulting in a horrifying 26-second rampage that claimed approximately 57,912 lives. Aki Hayakawa, the series’ beloved deuteragonist, was one of those affected by this calamity.

The assault by the Gun Devil decimated Aki’s family and childhood home, igniting in him a profound desire for vengeance against the entity responsible. This tragic experience propelled Aki to become a Devil Hunter with Public Safety, where he dedicated himself to seeking out and eliminating the Gun Devil. Initially, he partnered with Himeno and later became responsible for mentoring Denji and Power.

Note: This article includes spoilers from the *Chainsaw Man* series and reflects the author’s views.

Aki’s Background in Chainsaw Man

Aki Hayakawa in Chainsaw Man (Image via MAPPA) — Aki Hayakawa in *Chainsaw Man* (Image via MAPPA)

As mentioned earlier, Aki Hayakawa was one of the numerous casualties caused by the Gun Devil’s onslaught in Japan. In the span of a mere 26 seconds, the Devil wrought catastrophic damage, resulting in over 50,000 deaths, including members of Aki’s family.

This personal loss ignited a fierce loathing for the Gun Devil within Aki, leading him to join Public Safety in his quest for retribution. A few years down the line, he became a Devil Hunter, paired with Himeno, and started reporting to Makima. His burning desire to defeat the Gun Devil fueled his perseverance, even when faced with immense peril.

Aki willingly undertook any assignments related to the Gun Devil, which primarily involved searching for and securing fragments of its flesh scattered across Japan.

Aki’s Quest for the Gun Devil and His Tragic End

Denji, Aki, and Power in Chainsaw Man (Image via MAPPA) — Denji, Aki, and Power in *Chainsaw Man* (Image via MAPPA)

Before Denji and Power entered Aki’s life, his singular aim was to eradicate the Gun Devil. However, assuming responsibility for the two young characters became one of the most positive changes in Aki’s life.

Despite their constant bickering and playful skirmishes, Aki, Denji, and Power developed an unbreakable bond quickly. Aki found himself compelled to protect his newfound companions, shifting his focus away from the Gun Devil as he nurtured this makeshift family.

Tragically, due to a prior agreement with Makima, Aki is ultimately transformed into the Gun Fiend after being killed and having his body possessed by the Gun Devil. This results in a confrontation with Denji, where Aki perceives their fight as a whimsical snowball battle. In a heart-wrenching moment, he sees Denji’s tears, prompting him to surrender and genuinely die, ultimately reuniting with his brother in the afterlife.

Aki’s demise is tragic not just for his own loss but for the harrowing circumstances surrounding it. Makima’s betrayal and the Gun Devil’s possession, which led to the destruction of Aki’s family, intensify the sorrow. Furthermore, the violent confrontation with Denji, marked by chaos and destruction, amplifies the tragedy of his end.

Concluding Thoughts

Throughout his journey, Aki’s motivations gradually shifted from a relentless pursuit of the Gun Devil to safeguarding his newly formed family. Initially feeling powerless against the Devil’s devastation, he grew capable of confronting the challenge, likely explaining his reluctance to take on assignments from Makima until he was teamed with Denji and Power.

The representation of Aki’s death is profoundly upsetting. In his Gun Fiend form, he indiscriminately kills innocent individuals, something Aki would detest. Moreover, the metaphor of their confrontation as a playful snowball fight is a darkly brilliant element introduced by Fujimoto. This juxtaposition of a serene winter setting against the backdrop of violence underscores the deep trauma of Aki’s childhood and his heartbreaking demise.

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