Chainsaw Man Chapter 196: Is Fakesaw Man Yuko's Killer? Examining the Links to Justice and the Death Devil.
In Chainsaw Man chapter 196, a key moment was the introduction of a new character closely connected to the Death Devil, an important figure in the series. This chapter also featured a character that fans first thought was the main hero, Chainsaw Man, but it turned out to be a creepy figure called Fakesaw Man. While the chapter doesn’t directly confirm who Fakesaw Man is, there are many hints and themes that strongly suggest he might be the one who killed Yuko earlier in Part 2.
Dialogue and Thematic Connections
One of the most compelling pieces of evidence linking Fakesaw Man to Yuko's killer is what he says when he first appears. Fakesaw Man confidently states that he is "delivering justice with the power of justice." This statement is important because it reflects the language used by the Fire Devil, who was mistakenly called the Justice Devil in the story. The Fire Devil's powers can cause transformations similar to Chainsaw Man in those who make contracts with it, which adds to the idea that Fakesaw Man has been using the Fire Devil's powers for a long time.
The mention of the Fire Devil as the Justice Devil is important. It suggests that Fakesaw Man made a deal with the Fire Devil early in Part 2, probably before the Chainsaw Man Church started making deals with the Fire Devil. This timeline means Fakesaw Man has had these powers for a long time, making it likely that he is responsible for Yuko's tragic death.
Yuko's Character and Motivations
Yuko, who was introduced earlier in Part 2, got her powers from the Fire Devil, which was presented to her as the Justice Devil. When she faced Asa Mitaka's bullies, Yuko explained that she was trying to deliver justice. This connection between Yuko and Fakesaw Man is significant, especially as Asa struggles with her own purpose and self-worth. A potential showdown with Fakesaw Man could be a key moment for Asa, allowing her to seek revenge for Yuko and find her own strength, similar to Denji's journey.
Visual and Narrative Parallels
Fujimoto's choice to have Fakesaw Man make a dramatic entrance by jumping down from a rooftop is an interesting detail that connects to Yuko's death. Yuko was killed on a tall building's roof, and seeing Fakesaw Man come down from a height creates a strong link between the two events. This suggests that Fakesaw Man's introduction is intentional, meant to remind readers of Yuko's tragic fate and to raise the emotional stakes for Asa.
Counterarguments and Narrative Flexibility
However, there is an argument against the idea that Fakesaw Man is the same person who killed Yuko. In chapter 111, Yuko's killer is shown with an arm that looks very different from Fakesaw Man's skeletal form introduced in chapter 196. This difference raises questions about who Yuko's murderer really is. Still, this inconsistency could be explained later through a retcon or flashback, which Fujimoto has used before. The story's flexibility means it's possible that the two characters could be the same, and the visual differences might be clarified as the story unfolds.
Implications for Asa's Character Arc
The identity of Fakesaw Man has important implications for Asa's character development. As she deals with her own challenges and looks for meaning in her life, facing Fakesaw Man could push her to grow. Her desire for revenge might lead her to a better understanding of justice, morality, and who she is, similar to the journeys of other characters like Denji and Yuko.
Conclusion and Anticipation
In summary, while the idea that Fakesaw Man is connected to Yuko's murderer is still just a theory, it fits well with the detailed storytelling and themes that Fujimoto is known for. Fakesaw Man's introduction is likely to have a big impact on the story, and fans can look forward to learning more about this character when the series returns on March 26, 2025. Asa's potential confrontation with Fakesaw Man sets the stage for a dramatic and emotional moment that could change her character and bring closure to Yuko's sad story. The complex connections and themes throughout the narrative show that Fujimoto has created a rich and engaging story that will keep readers interested as it continues.