Genya Shinazugawa, a character in Demon Slayer, captivates fans with his intriguing development. Season 3's Swordsmith Village Arc concludes with Genya playing a crucial role, allowing viewers to delve into this enigmatic individual who was briefly introduced in season 1.
As the younger sibling of Sanemi Shinazugawa, the Wind Hashira, Genya emerges as the fifth and final candidate to successfully complete the last selection exam alongside Tanjirou and his companions. The battles in the Swordsmith Village shed light on Genya's unique fighting style, revealing that he is the sole Demon Slayer to wield a gun in combat.
Season 1 showcased his undeniable passion for obtaining his personal katana, while season 3 stunned viewers with the unexpected revelation of him relying on a gun as his main weapon, leaving the audience bewildered.
Now, fans eagerly await an explanation for his decision to switch weapons.
Genya chooses a gun in Demon Slayer as he is incapable of performing Breathing Techniques
In the Demon Slayer series, Breathing Techniques are crucial for defeating demons as they prevent them from regenerating after decapitation. However, episode 6 of season 3 (Chapter 115 in the manga) reveals that Genya lacks the ability to perform any Breathing Techniques.
Genya in Demon Slayer Manga Chapter 115 (Image via Koyoharu Gotouge/Shueisha)
Therefore, wielding a sword proved ineffectual in his quest to vanquish the demons and achieve his aspiration of becoming a Hashira. Consequently, Genya sought alternative methods of combat and fortification.
To overcome his limitations, Genya employs a double-barreled shotgun equipped with ammunition forged from Scarlet Crimson Iron Sand and Scarlet Ore, the very materials utilized in creating Nichirin Swords. These projectiles are expertly crafted by the accomplished swordsmiths residing in Swordsmith Village and possess the formidable ability to sever the heads of the demons.
Genya beyond Nichirin bullets
Genya with his gun and blade (Image via Ufotable)
Genya stands out as an exceptionally distinctive Demon Slayer within the entire series due to his unparalleled approach to exterminating demons. In addition to his firearm, he possesses a variety of other weapons to aid him in combat.
Although Nichirin bullets possess considerable power, they alone prove inadequate against more formidable demons, specifically the Upper and Lower Moons. These adversaries possess the ability to employ Blood-Demon Art and possess astonishing regenerative capabilities. To enhance his likelihood of triumphing in such encounters, Genya always keeps a small Nichirin Blade at his disposal.
Genya Shinazugawa after his demon transformation (Image via Ufotable)
Genya Shinazugawa, unable to perform Breathing Techniques, underwent training under the Stone Hashira Gyomei Himejima. During this time, he acquired a unique style known as Repetitive Action, which effectively mimics the techniques of Breathing. As a result, he was able to attain Total Concentration, a skill equivalent to Water Breathing or Flame Breathing.
In the confrontation with Hantengu, the fourth Upper Moon, fans witness the revelation of Genya's remarkable talent to acquire temporary demonic abilities through the consumption of demon flesh. This undeniable display not only accentuates his exceptional nature but also reinforces his unwavering resolve to ascend to the esteemed position of a Hashira.
Conclusion
Regardless of his lack of swordsmanship skill and inability to use Breathing Styles,
his burning passion to become a Hashira. Genya's determination to reunite with his family and his diligence rivals that of Tanjirou's.
Genya Shinazugawa's formidable presence within the Demon Slayer Corps is due to his exceptional ability to acquire and proficiently utilize various skills in combat, as well as his quick thinking. Since his debut in season 1, Genya has undergone significant growth, earning him widespread admiration within the community.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z netizen, I find Genya's character in Demon Slayer to be intriguing and inspiring. His unique fighting style and unconventional weapon choice make him stand out from the other characters in the series.
His backstory and motivations are also compelling, and I am eager to learn more about his development in future seasons. Overall, I think Genya is a well-written and complex character who adds a lot to the Demon Slayer series.