Denji facing increasingly difficult challenges with each conflict. Even as he begins to find comfort in his new identity, he suffers serious losses, including the deaths of many colleagues during a coordinated terrorist attack by Samurai Sword and others targeting the Japanese Public Safety Unit.
His grueling training under Kishibe further tests his limits, leaving him questioning his ability to continue as a Devil Hunter. Despite these trials, Denji finds some solace in his partnership with Power and his other Division 4 teammates, who share a camaraderie reminiscent of the Suicide Squad.
In the wake of tragedy, Denji discovers camaraderie within Division 4 that fuels his determination (Photo: Chainsaw Man/MAPPA)His primary goals remain defeating the Gun Devil, excelling in his work, and pursuing a relationship with Makima. Although he doesn’t accomplish all of these by the season’s conclusion, Denji takes a major step forward with his team securing a hard-fought victory.
Denji Overcomes Samurai Sword in a Thrilling Duel
Denji’s confrontation with Samurai Sword in Tokyo culminates in an intense train battle. Although Denji suffered a decisive defeat in their previous encounter, this time, he demonstrates improved agility, aggression, and better control of his regenerative powers. However, the fight takes a toll, as he loses considerable blood, enabling Sword to overpower him initially.
In a cunning move, Denji lures Sword into a trap. After his arm saws are severed, he pretends to be vulnerable. Sword charges in, only for Denji to reveal a saw generated from his leg, using it to deliver a fatal strike that splits Sword in half. This victory mirrors the brutal finishing moves of the Mortal Kombat games, marking an iconic moment in the series.
Hayakawa Confronts Sawatari and the Ghost Devil
Sawatari, Samurai Sword’s handler, faces off against Hayakawa, relying on the Ghost Devil she stole and corrupted after killing Himeno. A cigarette left behind by Himeno inspires Hayakawa to conquer his fear, enabling him to defeat the Ghost Devil without resistance. Afterward, he captures Sawatari, despite Kobeni’s suggestion to kill her, as her intel could prove crucial.
Unfortunately, the Snake Devil under Sawatari’s control consumes her, leaving the cause unclear—whether it was her own choice or a contractual loophole. This abrupt development raises questions but does not concern Makima, who seems to have already secured what she needed.
Makima’s Stealthy Progress Toward the Gun Devil
Makima continues her mission to gather fragments of the Gun Devil’s flesh, acquiring a huge amount during the hotel incident. She informs her superiors of her progress, signaling that she has a clearer understanding of her target’s movements. Her cryptic smile at the season’s end hints at her hidden motives, suggesting she may have orchestrated the events to gain an advantage in her hunt.
Denji’s cunning trap leads to a brutal finish, evoking the fierce energy of Mortal Kombat (Photo: Chainsaw Man/MAPPA)This understated conclusion teases fans with the promise of revelations in the next season, leaving viewers questioning Makima’s true intentions and role in the broader conflict.
Denji and Hayakawa Forge a Unique Bond
Following Denji’s victory, Samurai Sword survives in human form but is taken prisoner. Denji persuades Hayakawa to exact revenge for their fallen friend Himeno by engaging in a peculiar act of retribution. Together, they kick Sword in the groin repeatedly, turning it into a twisted contest to see who can elicit the loudest scream.
This unconventional moment provides Hayakawa with a sense of closure and allows him to process his grief. Through this bizarre bonding experience, Denji and Hayakawa begin to view each other as brothers.
Division 4 Finds Unity as a Surrogate Family
As the season concludes, Hayakawa starts to see his colleagues, including Power, as a family. The group celebrates their victory with a sense of togetherness, eating, drinking, and reflecting on their shared losses. Hayakawa smokes the cigarette left by Himeno, symbolizing his acceptance of her death and a renewed focus on the present.
Despite the newfound harmony, Denji experiences recurring dreams about a door he is warned not to open. Pochita’s caution hints at a hidden power and the darker aspects of their shared existence.
Reze’s Introduction Sets Up Future Conflicts
The final moments of Season 1 introduce a mysterious woman observing Denji from the shadows. Manga readers recognize her as Reze, also known as Bomb Girl, an assassin capable of transforming her body into explosives. She appears to be working for the Gun Devil, likely targeting the heart that Denji and Pochita share.
This ominous ending raises questions about Reze’s intentions and the growing threats facing Denji and Division 4. The season closes with a sense of anticipation, as viewers await Denji’s response to Reze’s approach and the challenges ahead.
