Made in Abyss has captivated manga and anime fans with its breathtaking world-building, compelling characters, and heart-wrenching storytelling. As Riko and Reg descend deeper into the Abyss, they encounter both wonders and horrors beyond imagination. Along their perilous journey, several tragic deaths have left readers devastated. Let’s explore the top 5 saddest deaths in Made in Abyss that had fans reaching for the tissues.
1. Mitty’s Transformation and Death
Perhaps the most gut-wrenching death in the entire series is that of Mitty, Nanachi’s dear friend. As children, Mitty and Nanachi were subjected to horrific experiments by the deranged White Whistle Bondrewd. While Nanachi emerged as a Hollow, Mitty was transformed into a grotesque, immortal creature constantly in agony.
Nanachi spent years caring for Mitty, unable to end her suffering due to her immortality. It’s only when Reg arrives with his Incinerator that Nanachi finally has a way to release Mitty from her torment. The scene where Nanachi says goodbye and Reg reluctantly obliterates Mitty is utterly heartbreaking. Nanachi’s anguished cries as Mitty disintegrates will haunt readers long after finishing the chapter.
2. Prushka’s Sacrifice
Prushka’s death is made all the more tragic by how quickly readers grew to love her character. As Bondrewd’s “daughter,” Prushka lived a sheltered life in Idofront, eagerly awaiting the day she could venture into the Abyss herself. Her innocence and enthusiasm provided a stark contrast to the darkness of the fifth layer.
Prushka’s unwavering faith in her “father” makes her fate even more devastating. Bondrewd callously uses her as a test subject, transforming her into a cartridge. In her final moments, Prushka’s love for Riko allows her soul to manifest as a White Whistle, granting Riko the power to continue her journey. The revelation that Prushka’s consciousness lives on in the Whistle offers little comfort in the face of such a cruel demise.
3. Vueko’s Bittersweet End
Vueko’s story is one of tragedy from start to finish. As a member of the Ganja suicide corps, she endured unimaginable horrors in the sixth layer. Her role in creating the Narehate Village of Ilblu and her complex relationship with Irumyuui make her a deeply sympathetic character.
After being imprisoned for years by Faputa, Vueko finally finds a measure of peace upon reuniting with Riko and her friends. However, her reprieve is short-lived. As Faputa rampages through Ilblu, Vueko sacrifices herself to protect the villagers, finding redemption in her final moments. Her death marks the end of an era for Ilblu and serves as a poignant conclusion to her long, painful journey.
4. Irumyuui’s Transformation
While not a conventional “death,” Irumyuui’s transformation into the core of Ilblu is a profoundly sorrowful event. As a young girl from the Hollow village, Irumyuui suffered immensely after being brought to the sixth layer. Her desperate wish to bear children, fueled by the Cradle of Desire, leads to a series of monstrous births and her eventual metamorphosis into the very foundation of Ilblu.
The gradual loss of Irumyuui’s humanity, coupled with Vueko’s anguish at being unable to save her, makes this one of the most emotionally charged storylines in Made in Abyss. The revelation that Faputa is Irumyuui’s “final child” adds another layer of complexity to this tragic tale.
5. The Unnamed Narehate
In a series filled with named characters meeting tragic ends, one of the most impactful deaths comes from an unnamed Narehate in Ilblu. During Faputa’s rampage, this Narehate sacrifices itself to protect Riko, using its body to shield her from debris.
What makes this death so poignant is how it exemplifies the complex nature of the Narehate. Despite their monstrous appearances, many retain their humanity and capacity for selflessness. This nameless creature’s sacrifice highlights the theme of finding beauty and nobility in even the most unlikely places, a recurring motif in Made in Abyss.
The Impact of Death in Made in Abyss
These deaths serve as more than just shock value or plot devices. They underscore the brutal nature of the Abyss and the high stakes of Riko and Reg’s journey. Each loss forces the characters – and readers – to confront the harsh realities of their world and grapple with complex ethical dilemmas.
The way Made in Abyss handles death also sets it apart from many other manga series. Deaths are rarely glorified or used for cheap emotional manipulation. Instead, they’re treated with gravity and respect, often serving as catalysts for character growth and deeper exploration of the story’s themes.
Coping with Loss in the Abyss
One of the most compelling aspects of Made in Abyss is how the characters cope with the constant presence of death. From Riko’s determination to honor those who’ve fallen by continuing her journey, to Nanachi’s struggle with survivor’s guilt, the manga offers a nuanced portrayal of grief and resilience.
This approach resonates strongly with fans, many of whom have found comfort and catharsis in the characters’ struggles. The manga’s unflinching examination of loss and mortality has sparked countless discussions among readers, cementing its place as a modern classic in the seinen genre.
The Lasting Legacy of Made in Abyss
As Made in Abyss continues to captivate readers with its blend of wonder and tragedy, these deaths remain some of the most impactful moments in the series. They serve as a testament to mangaka Akihito Tsukushi’s storytelling prowess and his ability to create deeply human moments in a fantastical setting.
The emotional weight of these scenes has contributed significantly to madeinabyss.me critical acclaim and passionate fanbase. As the story progresses deeper into the Abyss, readers brace themselves for more heart-wrenching moments, knowing that each tear shed is a testament to the power of Tsukushi’s creation.
What are your thoughts on these tragic deaths in Made in Abyss? Are there other moments that left you emotionally devastated? Share your experiences in the comments below and join the discussion with fellow fans of this remarkable manga series.