Chainsaw Man is more than just a gory, adrenaline-pumping anime — it’s a meticulous psychological chessboard where every scene, symbol, and silenced heartbeat echoes with meaning. Created by Tatsuki Fujimoto, Chainsaw Man has quickly solidified its place in modern anime as a phenomenon, with fans dissecting every frame for clues about Denji’s fate, Makima’s true motives, and the next steps in the unfolding apocalypse.
But beneath the blood-soaked surface and the grotesque battles lies a deeper narrative that’s still being written — one where Denji isn’t just a contract-enslaved devil hunter, but a pawn in a game far larger than he realizes. In this article, we’ll explore fan theories, examine the story’s foreshadowing, and decode what could be next in the world of Chainsaw Man.
Denji: Hero, Victim, or Something Else?
Since the beginning, Denji has been painted as the underdog — a poor, debt-ridden boy who sells his soul (and blood) to survive. His bond with Pochita, a puppy devil transformed into a chainsaw, creates a unique symbiosis. But as the story evolves, the question becomes: Is Denji really in control, or is he being manipulated?
The Power of Subjugation
Makima’s manipulation of Denji has always been one of the more disturbing aspects of Chainsaw Man. She offers him love, a family, and a sense of belonging — things he’s never had. But these “gifts” come with strings attached. Her use of the Control Devil’s power makes Denji — and the audience — question every moment of happiness he’s experienced.
Denji’s Evolution: From Human to Myth
By the end of Part 1, Denji has already transformed beyond human. He’s gained devil powers, lost the support of both devils and humans, and now carries a bounty on his head. But what’s next? Could Denji be on the path to becoming the next Public Safety Devil? Or even — dare we say — a god?
Makima: Benevolent God or Sinister Puppet Master?
One of the most controversial aspects of Chainsaw Man is the character of Makima. Is she truly a god-like being, or is that just a front to control others? Many fans have speculated that she’s not just the Control Devil but possibly a collective of devils, using various hosts throughout history to manipulate events.
Evidence of Her True Nature
- Makima’s ability to control both devils and humans.
- Her nonchalant reaction when Power dies — almost as if she expected it.
- Her cryptic statements about Denji’s purpose and the future.
Some fans theorize that Makima is not one devil but an ancient, evolved form of the Control Devil that can fragment its power across hosts. This theory, while not confirmed, adds a chilling layer to her interactions with Denji — as if she’s always several steps ahead.
Fan Theories That’ll Mess With Your Mind
The Chainsaw Man fandom is one of the most active and creative communities today. Below are some of the most popular theories that have emerged from fan discussions and online forums.
1. Denji is the “God of Contracts”
One of the most prevalent fan theories positions Denji as a being who could evolve into the next divine figure in the devil hierarchy. With his control over Pochita, and possibly even his ability to absorb other devils, some argue that Denji may eventually become the ultimate power broker in the Chainsaw Man world.
2. Makima Is Already Dead
A twistier theory that flips everything on its head suggests that the Makima we’ve been following isn’t the real Makima at all. Instead, she may be a projection or a remnant of her former self. Evidence for this theory includes her strange behavior and lack of reaction to her own “death.”
3. The Gun Devil’s Return
The Gun Devil was eliminated in Part 1, but that doesn’t mean it’s gone forever. Given the rules of Fujimoto’s world, devils can reappear in new forms. The Gun Devil could return as a new threat, perhaps orchestrated by a surviving member of Public Safety or a revived devil.
Symbolism, Foreshadowing, and Hidden Clues
Tatsuki Fujimoto is known for his use of symbolism and layered storytelling. In Chainsaw Man, these elements are crucial for understanding what’s really going on.
The Chainsaw Itself
Pochita, the Chainsaw Devil, is not just a tool but a friend — perhaps something more. Some fans theorize that Pochita has its own agency and is playing the long game, ensuring Denji evolves into something greater or more dangerous.
The City as a Construct
The city in Chainsaw Man often functions like a living organism — a construct that adapts, reacts, and even remembers. Just as the sandcastle is shaped and reshaped by waves, the city and its institutions shift with the balance of power, reacting to the rise and fall of devils.
Debates Fueling the Community
Chainsaw Man has ignited countless debates, and some still dominate forums and Reddit threads.
Was Power Really Killed?
Power’s death caused a massive fan divide. Many fans believe that Power, as the Blood Devil’s vessel, may not truly be dead. Could her return set up a dramatic comeback in season 2?
Denji vs. Aki
The moral compass in Chainsaw Man is blurred, but Aki’s death left many viewers questioning whether Denji went too far. Was it justice? Revenge? Or the beginning of Denji’s descent?
Frequently Asked Questions about Chainsaw Man
Is Chainsaw Man Based on a Real Story?
Chainsaw Man is not based on a real story. It’s an original manga series created by Tatsuki Fujimoto and published in Weekly Shonen Jump. However, it draws inspiration from various folklore, pop culture, and existential philosophy.
Is Denji a Devil?
Yes, Denji becomes a hybrid devil-human after bonding with Pochita, the Chainsaw Devil. Over the course of the story, he gains more devil powers and is recognized by both devils and humans as a powerful threat.
What Is Makima’s Goal in Chainsaw Man?
Makima’s ultimate goal remains unclear, but it’s heavily implied she wants to create a world under her control — possibly through Denji. Her title as the Control Devil and her calm demeanor suggest she’s playing a far more significant role than others realize.
Will There Be a Season 2 of Chainsaw Man?
Yes, a second season of Chainsaw Man has been officially confirmed. The manga continues beyond Part 1, and the anime adaptation is expected to follow suit.
The Truth Behind the Blade: Final Thoughts
Chainsaw Man is a story that refuses to stand still — just like the ever-changing shape of the world it mirrors. From Denji’s mysterious future to Makima’s enigmatic motives, every twist leaves fans wanting more. The narrative may be built on violence and horror, but its core is something far deeper: the human condition.
Whether Denji will rise as a devil, a god, or fall as a sacrificial fool is still up in the air. But in the world of Chainsaw Man, perhaps the real power lies not in what we become — but in how we choose to fight for what we believe in.