Does Aki die in Chainsaw Man Part 1?

Does Aki die in Chainsaw Man Part 1? Explore his fate in the series, from his transformation to his final moment with Denji.

Does Aki die in Chainsaw Man Part 1
Does Aki die in Chainsaw Man Part 1 (Source: MAPPA Studio)

One of the most heart-wrenching questions fans keep asking is: Does Aki die in Chainsaw Man Part 1? The series has become notorious for its brutal treatment of characters. It has also proven again that no character is safe regardless of their importance to the story or connection to Denji.

The answer to this question is yes, Aki Hayakawa does meet his end in Chainsaw Man Part 1. The prediction by the Future Devil about him dying “in the worst way imaginable” turns out to be true.

Do follow this guide to learn more about the twisted fate of Aki and his relationship with other characters in Chainsaw Man Part 1.

Aki’s Final Fate in Chainsaw Man Part 1

Angel Devil and Aki in Chainsaw Man Part 1
Angel Devil and Aki in Chainsaw Man Part 1 (Source: MAPPA Studio)

Aki’s story in Chainsaw Man Part 1 ends in a miserable manner that changes the series’ trajectory. During what would become his final mission, he unknowingly walks into a carefully laid trap when the Gun Devil advances toward Makima. Aki dies when the Gun Devil activates his ability.

In a cruel twist of fate, Aki’s corpse is possessed by the very thing he spent years fighting against – the Gun Fiend. Thinking about it, Makima either let it happen or made it happen.

It’s heartbreaking to know the way his consciousness experiences these final moments. While his Gun Fiend form rampages through Tokyo and kills innocent civilians, Aki’s mind places him in a peaceful snowball fight with his new little brother, Denji. This scene reminds him of a time he once played with his younger brother.

The scene reaches its climax when he notices something he’s never seen before – Denji crying, causing him to give up and allow Denji to end his life.

His death becomes more meaningful when considering his earlier contract with the Future Devil, who had joyfully predicted this “worst possible” end. 

Why Makima Used Aki Against Denji

Makima and Aki inside a car
Makima and Aki (Source: MAPPA Studio)

The relationship between Aki and Makima in Chainsaw Man Part 1 represents a calculated act of manipulation. Initially, Aki showed respect and loyalty toward Makima. He even declared he owed her his life.

Throughout the early chapters of Chainsaw Man, Makima carefully fosters this devotion. She presented herself as a benevolent figure who helped Aki cope with his family’s tragic murder by the Gun Devil. Nobody could believe her true intention behind the sweet and innocent face.

Makima’s manipulation of Aki’s relationship with Denji is another aspect of her grand scheme. Even though Aki resisted partnering with Denji at first, Makima subtly guided their relationship.

Makima pushed Denji into Aki’s life as Aki lost his younger brother and Denji was perfect for him to fulfill the role of big brother.

She also made calculated moves like ordering Denji and Power to visit Aki in the hospital or having Kurose and Tendo guide him towards stronger devil contracts. These actions were part of her strategy to maximize the emotional impact of Aki’s death.

Her deception is revealed only when Angel Devil questions Aki about his feelings towards her. Disturbingly, he realizes he can’t remember why he admires her so deeply. Thus, he himself is another victim of her brainwashing.

Aki’s History With the Gun Devil in Chainsaw Man Part 1

The foundation of Aki’s character is built upon a tragic encounter with the Gun Devil. The Gun Devil killed his parents and younger brother, leaving him orphaned and setting him on a path of revenge. It seems this moment in Chainsaw Man was not just a random act of violence. It makes no sense that Aki’s family becomes collateral damage in the Devil’s larger attack.

Aki dedicates his life to becoming a Devil Hunter, specifically to hunt down the Gun Devil. He begins making a contract with the Fox Devil, after which he meets Himeno, who becomes his mentor and partner. His dedication leads him to join the Anti-Devil Special Unit 4.

When the Devil finally appears in the Japanese city of Nikaho, he faces his family’s killer. However, fate takes a twisted turn. In an attempt to protect Makima, Aki is killed by the very Devil he spent years hunting. 

But death is not the end of his connection to the Gun Devil- in another dark twist, his corpse becomes possessed by the Gun Devil’s remnants, transforming him into the Gun Fiend.

The Gun Devil, the most powerful Devil in Chainsaw Man Part 1, effectively claims Aki as its final victim twice. First by killing his human form, and then by using his body as a vessel for destruction, forcing Denji to end the life of someone he had come to see as family.

The Aftermath of Aki’s Death in Chainsaw Man Part 1

Aki, Denji, and Power from Chainsaw Man Part 1 (Source: MAPPA Studio)

The death of Aki Hayakawa changes the emotional landscape of Chainsaw Man. Its aftermath particularly affects Denji and Power, who must cope with the loss of their friend and unofficial guardian.

Aki’s death is a crucial stage in Denji’s character development. Having to kill someone he considered family forces Denji to confront the harsh realities of being a Devil Hunter in a way that previous battles never did. He carries the weight of having to end Aki’s life, even if it was what Aki wanted.

Another aspect of Aki’s death’s aftermath is the emptiness it leaves in the apartment the trio once shared. The domestic life Aki, Denji, and Power had built together is permanently gone.

His death also put a crucial piece in understanding Makima’s true nature. It leads to unraveling the extent of her manipulations and brainwashing.

Conclusion

The death of Aki Hayakawa stands as one of Chainsaw Man Part 1’s most defining moments. His transformation from a revenge-driven devil hunter to a caring figure creates a tragic irony. His final moments of clarity — choosing to let Denji end his life— portray the human connection over the devil’s violent nature. 

Aki could have gotten a normal life, but he was so driven by his revenge that he forgot what was really precious to him— a new family, Denji and Power. But it was too late to realize. The only peace he guaranteed was his own, and to get that he had to die. 

Still, Aki remains one of the most beloved characters even after his tragic death, showcasing his popularity among viewers.


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