Chainsaw Man chapter 197 has sparked a spirited debate among fans regarding the confrontations between the Death Devil and Fakesaw Man. Some believe the Death Devil appears weakened, arguing that as the narrative progresses, individuals in the story are growing less fearful of death itself. However, this perspective may overlook critical elements from the series, particularly concerning the Darkness Devil, whose formidable presence contradicts the idea of a weakened Death Devil.
In the earlier narrative arcs of the Chainsaw Man manga, the Darkness Devil emerged as a terrifying force. Its potential was so immense that it nearly led to the demise of Denji and his companions—if not for Makima’s timely intervention. This enigma raises questions about the nature of fear, notably the societal perceptions surrounding darkness, which many individuals learn to confront over time. Still, the Darkness Devil retains its power, likely due to its classification as a Primal Fear Devil.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for the series.
Reevaluating the Death Devil’s Strength in Light of the Darkness Devil

Chapter 197 showcases numerous instances where the Death Devil is bested by Fakesaw Man, culminating in her dismemberment. This has led many to conclude that she is losing her potency on account of the characters’ diminishing fear of mortality. This theory, while intriguing, is contradicted by the earlier demonstration of the Darkness Devil’s strength. If people can learn to overcome their fear of darkness, one might argue that the Darkness Devil shouldn’t possess the formidable strength demonstrated in previous arcs.
It’s important to note that while the Darkness Devil stands out due to its status as a Primal Fear, there exists a compelling argument surrounding the Death Devil as one of the Horsemen. This status suggests that she should not fall easily to Fakesaw Man, despite the ongoing challenges and emotional turmoil experienced within the series.
The Mystique of the Death Devil: Unanswered Questions

The Death Devil remains an enigma within the Chainsaw Man narrative, prompting numerous inquiries about her motives, backstory, and potential ties to key characters, particularly Denji. Author Tatsuki Fujimoto has shed light on certain aspects of her abilities, including her lethal touch and remarkable regeneration capabilities. Some theorists posit that her identity as the Death Devil implies immortality, which could open doors to intriguing plot developments.
Concluding Insights
The Chainsaw Man series illustrates that not all Devils are directly impacted by the fear levels of humanity, as demonstrated by the Darkness Devil earlier in the narrative. This insight casts doubt on the theory that the Death Devil’s power wanes amidst a declining societal fear of death. Consequently, viewers are left to ponder alternative explanations for her swift defeat at the hands of Fakesaw Man.