Demon Slayer characters are often defined by their motivations, techniques, and roles in the series. With the magnificent anime adaptation by Ufotable, this formula has proven successful over the years.
However, it’s undeniable that the ending of the series has sparked debates. Several characters deserved different fates, potentially enhancing the story. Of course, this is subjective, but here are five Demon Slayer characters who should have survived and five who could have met a different fate.
Note: This article contains spoilers for the Demon Slayer series. Additionally, characters in the list are chosen based on the author’s criteria and are not meant to suggest simultaneous changes.
Essential Survivors: 5 Demon Slayer Characters
1. Genya Shinazugawa
Genya stands out due to the rushed and undeveloped nature of his story, especially when compared to most other Demon Slayer characters. His relationship with his brother Sanemi and the rapid process of becoming Tanjiro’s friend felt forced. While briefly hinted to possess demonic abilities, this aspect remains unexplored, leaving much to be desired.
2. Obanai Iguro
Hashira members, theoretically the main force of the Demon Slayer Corps, tend to be popular characters. However, their roles and journeys can be inconsistent. Serpent Hashira, Obanai Iguro, is an example of a character underutilized and not given a chance to shine in the manga. His death alongside his lover Mitsuri was a poignant scene, but exploring his life post-battle could have been interesting.
3. Mitsuri Kanroji
Mitsuri’s popularity likely increased after her performance against the fourth Upper Moon in the anime’s third season. While Ufotable successfully adapted her battle, her character’s peak seems confined to this moment. In the final story, Mitsuri accomplishes little and has a disappointingly underwhelming conclusion. Given her traumatic experiences and unique reasons for joining the Corps, her survival and quest for peace could have been compelling.
4. Muichiro Tokito
Muichiro, one of the most naturally talented members of the Demon Slayer Corps, played a significant role. Unfortunately, his story ended tragically without experiencing adulthood. As a character labeled a child soldier due to understandable context and natural abilities, seeing what life held for him post-story could have been intriguing.
5. Shinobu Kocho
Shinobu Kocho holds a high position among Demon Slayer characters. Her deep hatred for demons combined with a calm demeanor makes her interesting. Her tragic fate in the battle against Doma, after avenging her sister Kanae, left questions about life without her long-standing goal. Living without the fuel of hatred and vengeance could have been an intriguing post-victory exploration.
Characters with Game-Changing Departures: 5 Demon Slayer Characters
1. Sanemi Shinazugawa
Sanemi is undoubtedly one of the most interesting Demon Slayer characters. Introduced as a borderline psychopath, his complex childhood is later revealed. While he has a challenging past, delving deeper into his brother’s complex history could have been more captivating. Swapping fates with Genya might have provided a more intriguing narrative.
2. Zenitsu Agatsuma
Zenitsu is a divisive character among Demon Slayer fans. While some enjoy his impressive combat skills while asleep, his constant yelling and fear can be off-putting. Seeing him sacrifice himself in the final battle could have provided a more satisfying conclusion, surpassing the somewhat anticlimactic ending with Nezuko.
3. Tanjiro Kamado
Tanjiro’s transformation into a demon towards the end could be considered a wasted moment among Demon Slayer characters. The story didn’t take the bold route of killing the hero in a bittersweet yet interesting conclusion. Tanjiro’s consistent quest to kill demons throughout the series makes his transformation into one a unique approach. However, the safe choice of saving him in the last moment feels forced.
4. Giyu Tomioka
Giyu Tomioka arguably shows the most signs of impending death among Demon Slayer characters. His role as a catalyst for saving Tanjiro and Nezuko and guiding the main character makes him a significant figure. The fact that Tomioka always wanted to die and felt the need to die would have provided the series with a poignant death. His demise, especially in the battle against Akaza just before Tanjiro, would have been one of the most emotional deaths in the series.
5. Nezuko Kamado
Nezuko’s death among Demon Slayer characters could have been the most interesting, considering she often acted as the primary driving force for the series. Wanting her to return to being human was Tanjiro’s most significant motivation. Therefore, having her killed by Muzan or an Upper Moon, resulting in a major turning point, would have been impactful. It could have added tension and risk to the story, always a welcome element.
Final Thoughts
Depending on the perspective, the fates of Demon Slayer characters could have varied, resulting in better or worse outcomes. However, the success of the series, as it stands, is undeniable.