Episode 4 of Gachiakuta, titled “The Cleaners’ Headquarters”, plunges protagonist Rudo deeper into the treacherous world of The Pit as he begins his apprenticeship with the Cleaners. The episode, which premiered on July 27, 2025, in Japan and was simulcast on Crunchyroll, builds upon the foundational lore established in the preceding episodes, continuing Rudo’s journey for survival and understanding in a dystopian society where the discarded are sent to a dangerous underworld.
Entering the Cleaners’ Headquarters
Following the events of Episode 3, where Enjin introduced Rudo to the concept of Janitors and Jinkis, Episode 4 sees Enjin bringing Rudo to the Cleaners’ Headquarters. Rudo’s primary motivation for joining the Cleaners is to find a way to return to The Sphere, the floating city from which he was unjustly cast down. He hopes to meet the organization’s boss, who is rumored to know a method of returning to the surface.
Upon arrival, Rudo discovers that the “wandering boss” is absent, meaning he cannot officially join the Cleaners immediately. Instead, he is given the opportunity to prove himself as an “apprentice.” This serves as Rudo’s official embarkation on missions with the Cleaners, where he begins to learn the ropes of their perilous work.
New Characters and Dynamics
Episode 4 introduces several key members of the Cleaners HQ, expanding the cast and providing new character interactions. These new additions include Semiu, the receptionist at the Janitor Headquarters, voiced by Mie Sonozaki; Gris, a supporter, voiced by Satoshi Hino; Follo, voiced by Kazuki Ura; and Tomme, portrayed by Hisako Tojo. Their introductions help to flesh out the Cleaners’ organization and its internal dynamics.
A notable encounter in this episode involves Rudo meeting Zanka after his purse is stolen by a stray cat. Rudo accidentally touches Zanka’s Jinki, leading to an immediate conflict, though the resolution of their confrontation provides a touch of humor. The episode concludes with Rudo meeting Riyou, another significant character.
Rudo’s First Mission and Challenges
As an apprentice, Rudo accompanies the Cleaners on their first mission, which involves hunting down a spotted Trash Beast. This mission provides a closer look at how the Cleaners operate and combat the mutated garbage monsters that inhabit The Pit. While the episode features action sequences, it also highlights a setback for Rudo: his inability to effectively use his Vital Instrument.
The episode also delves into Rudo’s self-realizations and his interactions with the surprisingly friendly Supporters, adding a layer of humanity to the intense battles. A significant development in this episode is the discovery that a tougher Trash Beast is somehow powered by a Vital Instrument, raising the stakes and hinting at deeper mysteries within The Pit.
Manga Adaptation and Future Expectations
Gachiakuta Episode 4 adapts events from the original manga by Kei Urana, with graffiti design by Hideyoshi Ando. Specifically, this episode covers content from roughly chapters 7 through 10 of the manga. The anime series is produced by Bones Film and is slated for a total of 24 episodes, airing consecutively over two cours until December 2025.
The series has gained popularity for its intense story, dark dystopian atmosphere, and striking visuals. Fans can expect Gachiakuta to continue exploring Rudo’s journey for survival, his fight against corrupt forces, and the unraveling mysteries of The Pit and The Sphere.
