The 50 Best Episodes of ‘One Piece’

Ranking the best episodes of the One Piece anime is a peculiar endeavor. And the perspective changes based on one key factor. Have you been watching since the beginning, or did you binge it? There’s a nostalgic quality to the former, especially with certain story arcs that are fan favorites and definitive to the legacy of One Piece. That said, due to pacing and budgetary issues, some sagas don’t work as well in the anime as they do in the manga. Some would even argue that it wasn’t until Wano began airing in 2020 that the anime started to meet the quality of the manga. 

Our list, which hosts several Wano episodes, suggests the idea is correct. However, plenty of earlier episodes are just as striking for numerous reasons. From emotional potency to classic-style animation with its warm tones and watercolor effects, pre-time skip One Piece is just as worthy of viewing as it is in reading. Some arcs, such as Skypiea, are relatively shortchanged here due to the nature of the narrative, which is better than week-to-week. The Noland story is absent because it takes well over an episode to reach its desired effect. The most recent arc, Egghead, could be on its list due to the explosive nature of its recent artistry and eclectic designs. 

To celebrate the illustrious, messy, sometimes filler-heavy legacy of the One Piece anime, we celebrate its 25th anniversary with the 50 best episodes. Spoilers for the entire series below.

Episode 26 “Zeff and Sanji’s Ambition: The Sea of Dreams – All Blue”

While there are undoubtedly stand-out moments leading up to this pivotal, character-driven episode, “Zeff and Sanji’s Ambition: The Sea of Dreams – All Blue” is the first that fully embodies the series’ spirit. It bears the visual trademarks of the textured ’90s anime aesthetic, especially the sunsets that coat the rock Sanji and Zeff are stranded on with its warm color stories and bleeding reds. But, more than anything, it offers two crucial elements. First, it beautifully solidifies Sanji’s characterization that works both here as a standalone upon first viewing and even more in retrospect — there’s significance to Sanji wondering why Zeff would be selflessly kind.

But, more than anything, it doubles down on the significance of dreams and the camaraderie of sharing them. Zeff didn’t just save Sanji because he was a kid. He saved him because “you had the same dream as me.” That note drives the overarching narrative of this series and tethers the most unlikely characters to one another, the story’s version of fate. [Ally Johnson]

Episode 37 “Luffy Rises! Result Of The Broken Promise.”

One of the best things the anime does with early One Piece is that the emotional core of the East Blue saga is Nami. Right from the start, the anime puts her front and center with Luffy, and it’s all for this episode. Nami’s flashback is wrapped up at the start and used to directly transition to her lowest moment. The rest of this episode explores the fallout from Nami’s savings being seized. Discovering the entire village knew of her deal, to Nojiko being shot, to the village deciding to march to its own death — it completely breaks her.

Completely overwhelmed and trying to cut Arlong’s tattoo off her just to regain some sense of self, Luffy finally steps in. Critically, even here he refuses to do more than stop Nami’s self-harm until she finally asks for his help directly. It’s this episode that establishes a critical part of Luffy’s emotional intelligence; that he doesn’t need to know someone’s trauma, just if they want his help. [Travis Hymas]

Episode 53  “The Legend Has Started! Head for the Grand Line!”

The core group has already been established since Arlong Park, yet Episode 53 solidifies their team. Luffy, Zoro, Nami, Usopp, and Sanji race through Loguetown while facing the hurdles that will become a series of long adversaries — from Smoker and Tashigi to, of course, Buggy. The pivotal sequence comes as they enter the Grand Line. The original five make their vows — their set of dreams and aspirations that link this unlikely crop together — as they enter the first official start of their long journey ahead. Everything before is simply the prequel. Simplistic in its approach yet wildly effective with the aid of the signature musical theme, the moment is euphoric and instantly classic.[AJ]

Episode 90 “Hiriluk’s Cherry Blossoms! Miracle of the Drum Rockies”

Chopper’s flashback concludes in this episode and it remains one of the most heartbreaking in One Piece. This is mostly thanks to the gut-punch of Chopper’s honest misreading of one of Hiriluk’s books. However, by giving Hiriluk’s final moment an entire episode to sink in, there’s a lot more than Chopper’s tears to contend with. One Piece uses Hiriluk’s death to reinforce one of its central themes – the theme of inherited will.

Thanks to being able to stage separate frames against each other, this episode reinforces that theme incredibly well. Kureha drinks at the exact same time as Hiriluk in the anime, establishing the passing of his will to her visually. Chopper and Dalton both do in their own ways, which segues perfectly into the cliffhanger of Wapol’s return. Now that viewers know just how bad things were under his rule, they know exactly why Wapol must be removed from Drum Island yet again. [TH] 

Episode 104 “Luffy vs. Vivi! A Tearful Vow for Comrades” 

Luffy vs. Vivi is our second episode named after a battle in which Luffy faces off with one of his crew members (I invite anyone to fight me if you still think Vivi isn’t one of the Straw Hats.) This time, things land heavier than his semi-comedic fight with Zoro back in Whiskey Peak. Disagreeing with Vivi over the best course of action to handle the Alabasta crisis, this is one of the earliest significant reminders in the series that although he doesn’t often speak his mind about serious issues, Luffy is always paying more attention than it seems. By arguing that halting the rebels won’t stop Crocodile’s plans and that it is naive to think it can be done without anyone getting killed, Luffy’s stubbornness brings Vivi to confess that she plans to throw her own life away to save her country.

This is where one of the crew’s earliest foundational moments occurs, as Luffy yells at her that even if she doesn’t care what it costs her, she needs to trust her crew and let them help her because, after all, aren’t they her friends? “Luffy vs. Vivi! A Tearful Vow for Comrades” is a defining moment for both Vivi and Luffy and one of the earliest examples of Luffy having to learn exactly what it means to put his foot down and call the shots as the captain. [Quinn Parulis]

Episode 110 “Merciless Fight to the Death! Luffy vs. Crocodile”

As the Straw Hats escape from Rainbase, Crocodile takes the opportunity to show just how much of a real threat he is. Luffy trying to take him on is the first real example of our rubber man biting off more than he can chew. Because the entire point is for Luffy to take a huge loss, this episode has one of the series most economical fights. The anime also really enhances the differences in venue. The setting sun drenches the desert in rich reds, colors that only get more intense as the episode culminates in Luffy’s first proper defeat of the series. This episode aired ages ago, but at the time it must have been shocking for viewers to see such a literal gut punch. As a result, the threat Crocodile poses to Vivi and the crew is made deadly serious. [TH]

Episode 125  “Magnificent Wings! My Name Is Pell, Guardian Deity of the Country!” 

The intense confrontation between Luffy and Crocodile reaches its climax in Episode 125, marking their third battle during the Alabasta arc. Crocodile acknowledges Luffy’s struggles, stating, “You were skewered, buried alive, and dried up,” recognizing the pain Luffy has endured to arrive at this moment. He then challenges Luffy to “ditch the burden” of friendships, questioning the reason for sacrificing himself to help others achieve their own ambitions. Despite his weakened state, Luffy  passionately responds that he will never stop fighting if it means saving Vivi’s life and defending her country. The Straw Hats embody his ideals as they support Vivi in her urgent race to stop a cannon from firing into the city.

What could have been a lighthearted or even silly moment, as Nami quickly orchestrates a relay-style plan to launch Vivi up the clocktower via pirates, unfolds with such sincerity that you can’t help but cheer when Chopper transforms and sends her flying towards their target. In the end, it is Pell who makes the ultimate sacrifice for Vivi and his country, heroically carrying the (now discovered to be) timebomb into the sky and away from the city — creating a moment so beautifully memeable that fans continue to reference it throughout the series. [Carly Johnson]

Episode 126  “I Will Surpass You! Rain Falls on Alabasta!” 

In a hilarious bit of visual and narrative potency, Luffy and Co. often face off against indomitable figures of strength. Quite literally, opponents whose stature dwarves our protagonists. It’s a quick and effective way to demonstrate the spirit and strength of the Straw Hats, who, aside from a few, lack that same physical mass. Luffy defeating Crocodile is the first of such examples. In the grand scheme of One Piece, Luffy’s fight and eventual win against Crocodile seems inconsequential. As a larger, core element of what makes the series work, it’s the first critical win as Luffy once again forces a tyrant to fall, gleefully helping alleviate the pain of his friends.

Episode 126 is a considerable win for Luffy and the series as a whole. The scale of the fight, the reckoning of justice, and the beautiful shot of Vivi standing against the landscape of her warring countrymen all strike at our emotions. But, as the title suggests, the real swell of feeling comes when the rain falls. Both thematically pleasing and a visual indicator of the miracles the will of a few can reap. [AJ]

Episode 129 Everything Began That Day! Vivi Tells of her Adventures!

One of the things that sets the Straw Hat crew apart from other Shonen protagonists is the complicated status their position as pirates places them in. Despite being the ones who are most responsible for stopping Crocodile, they are still wanted criminals. This fact wouldn’t even make our crew blink, but it becomes fascinating when viewed through the lens of Vivi, someone who considers herself both part of their crew and responsible for ruling her country. After an emotional speech heard throughout the country, in which Vivi tells a tale that is both an uplifting call to action for her people and a secret homage to her journey with Luffy, she races down to the harbor to see them off.

As the Straw Hats prepare to depart after breaking through the marine blockade with the help of all-time great Bon Clay, Vivi calls from the shore and tells them that even though she is staying behind, she asks that if they ever meet again, would they consider her part of the crew? Rather than give her the verbal reply that would indict her as a criminal, the crew all raise their left arms and display the Xs they had marked at the start of the season. The farewell to Vivi is one of the most iconic images in the series, while also being one of the earliest moments where the Straw Hats feel the genuine weight of what they have given up by being pirates. [QP]

Episode 147  “The Pirate’s Summit! The Man Who Talks of Dreams and the King of Underwater Exploration”  

As our official introduction to one of the best villains in anime, “The Pirate’s Summit! The Man Who Talks of Dreams and the King of Underwater Exploration,” is best remembered for the character-defining quote, “People’s dreams don’t ever end!”. Through both that statement and his earlier disagreement over their dining preferences, we meet Marshall D. Teach, aka Blackbeard, who right out the gate is contrasted with Luffy on two of his biggest characterizations: his love of food and his singular dream to become King of the Pirates. Teach is all about consumption and living as he pleases, coming close to being the purest example of a stereotypical pirate in the whole series.

This encounter comes off the back of the memorable bar fight in which Luffy and Zoro refuse to defend themselves for the sake of a promise not to cause a scene they made to Nami. This moment evokes the same feelings of steadfast willpower demonstrated by Shanks in the story’s opening scenes. It’s a classic episode that kicks off an epic rivalry for our main character and is hands down one of the best moments in the series at defining precisely what Luffy stands for. [QP]

Episode 152 “Sail into the Sky! Ride the Knock-Up Stream” 

The transitional moment from the Jaya arc to the arrival in Skypiea, “Sail into the Sky! Ride the Knock-Up Stream,” is a thrilling example of One Piece’s unrivaled pacing. Leaving Mont Blanc Cricket behind with his parting message that even though people may laugh and say it is a silly legend, no one has ever proved that El Dorado and Skypiea don’t exist, and “that’s what makes it a great adventure,” a feeling that resonates strongly with Luffy and sets the emotional tone for the exploratory vibes of the new arc.

As they approach the knock-up stream after narrowly escaping the pursuit of the Blackbeard Pirates, who reveal Luffy and Zoro’s new bounties to the Straw Hats (100,000,000 and 60,000,000 berries, respectively), the crew is then jettisoned into the sky in one of the series most thrilling and fantastical sequences. Flexing her skills as a navigator, Nami guides the ship up the pillar of sea and wind until the Merry uses its new wings to literally fly through the air, an exhilarating rush for both the viewers and Straw Hats alike.[QP]

Episode 192 “The Miracle in God’s Country! A Love Song Heard by Angels” 

There are a lot of outstanding, lore-establishing elements of Skypiea. But it lacks distinctive, standout, and standalone episodes that genuinely capture its otherworldly, whimsical spirit. Episode 192 lands on the perfect crescendoing note with a satisfying and emotional resolution. Not only does Luffy ring the Golden Bell through the impact of his blow to Enel, but he once more demonstrates his cunning mid-battle. Much of his fight with Enel showcases his ability to adapt against his assailant, making his win and the subsequent ringing of the bell all the more emotionally potent. The bell sounds, a rallying cry from those sitting above the clouds, saying, “We are here.” Befitting our protagonist and the ensuing battles he’ll continue to engage in as an unlikely victor. [AJ]

Episode 236 “Luffy vs. Usopp! The Spirit of the Clashing Men”

This episode is an emotionally fraught watch from start to finish. It picks up right as Luffy and Usopp are reaching a fever pitch in their argument over the Merry. Things do not take long to boil way over and into one of the best anime fights of all time. The animation and voiceover do a lot to heighten the tension of one the Straw Hats’ lowest moments. You can hear the youthful frustration in Mayumi Tanaka’s voice as Luffy almost tells Usopp to leave out of anger. Kappei Yamaguchi is even louder as Usopp doubles down in an attempt to both overcompensate for and hide from the insecurity bubbling up. While this isn’t the flashiest of Luffy’s fights, the anime knows exactly where to make up for it, especially in the scene of the Going Merry’s “tears” at seeing the two friends fight with their all. [TH] 

Episode 243 “CP9 Unmasked! Their Shocking True Faces”

As Iceberg and Robin hold each other at gunpoint, the magnitude of their conversation begins to unfold. They confront the crime of searching for and interpreting poneglyphs, where Robin’s knowledge is seen as a danger, and Iceberg’s possession of blueprints for ancient weapons comes to light. The threats introduced in this episode are on a scale we have not yet experienced in the series but have been simmering under the surface. The world government will go to any length to keep the balance of power shifted in their favor. In a show that celebrates friendships and the concept of a chosen family, viewers have been captivated by the idea that our relationships are frequently our greatest assets. This is what makes the betrayal of Iceberg’s Galley-La foreman so impactful. [CJ]

Episode 247 “The Man who is Loved by his Ship! Usopp’s Tears!” 

Despite not having much action, Episode 247 makes a strong complement to 236’s heartbreaking fight over the Merry. As Franky verbally battles Usopp over the Merry’s condition, the (at the time) former Straw Hat reveals how much he’s lying to himself. It becomes clear that Usopp sees the Going Merry as having some form of sentience, which has led him to further tie his own inadequacies to the ship’s weakness. This dialogue focused episode is the best showing yet of how voice actor Kazuki Yao will balance the rebellious hooligan side of Franky’s personality with his much more thoughtful and hard boiled side.

Franky doesn’t discount Usopp’s experiences and feelings and instead validates them, even as it doesn’t change his mind. Of the simple bonding moments of crew members, this one of the best even as neither character is an actual Straw Hat at the time. The anime doesn’t always get served well by the more conversational pieces of the story, but these episodes do highlight the superb casting decisions the series has made over the years for the Straw Hats. If they were even half as good as they were, the Straw Hats may not be nearly as memorable as they are. [TH]

250 “The End of the Legendary Man! The Day the Sea Train Cried”  

In a series that so often explores the themes of found family and shared dreams, Franky’s story resonates. The connection he has with Tom and Iceberg is complicated, but the love they share remains strong. In Episode 250, Franky expresses his regret for constructing the ships used in an attack by CP5. Tom quickly reassures him, stating, “No matter what kind of ship it is, the act of building it is neither an act of good or evil!”. He further emphasizes, “Even if the ships you build hurt someone, or even if they destroy the world, at least the one who created them should love them!”. Tom then charges at Spandam, attacking him in hopes of shouldering all responsibility.

He entrusts the blueprints to Franky and Iceberg, but as CP5 begins to apprehend him, Franky finds himself unable to remain passive. With unwavering resolve, he positions himself in the path of the oncoming sea train, desperate to save his mentor and father figure from the ominous fate of Impel Down. For Franky, Tom embodies his ultimate goal and is prepared to risk his life to save him and see his dream ship be realized. [CJ]

Episode 278 “Say You Want to Live! We Are Friends!!”

Some people say the time skip is when One Piece reached its first major turning point as a series, transitioning the Straw Hat pirates from lovable rookies to compelling contenders for the Pirate King Crew Throne yet to come. But for my berries, the true marker for when Luffy and the gang graduated the Grand Line in earnest came much earlier during the Enies Lobby arc. Specifically, when the anime spun a momentous chapter of the manga into a blistering, heart-pumping 20-odd minutes, solidifying this crew as the one to watch.

Up until this point, Nico Robin was an intriguing enigma. Our first Straw Hat crewmember who jumped onto the Going Merry without an established backstory or even an invite. What followed was what Eiichiro Oda truly does best. Weaving multiple, seemingly disparate arcs into a meticulously planned and wonderfully cohesive narrative flow for one of the story’s most impactful characters.

Robin’s “I Want To Live” is a rallying cry that has never quite left the hearts of many a One Piece fanatic, myself so obviously included. Followed, of course, by Luffy’s selfless declaration of war against the World Government and Sogeking’s burning of the flag (hm, whatever happened to that guy?) When I think of One Piece, I think about this moment. I think about Robin tearfully becoming a true Straw Hat in the same way so many of us watching got suckered into the crew ourselves at whatever various point along the journey. It’s everything I love about Oda’s story condensed into a single masterstroke of surefire stakes, endless emotion, and righteous revolution. [Jon Negroni]

377 “My Crewmate’s Pain is My Pain, Zoro Fights Prepared to Die” 

Appearing before the exhausted yet triumphal Straw Hats following their fight with Oars and Gecko Moria, Kuma offers them a devastating deal. He will spare their lives in exchange for Luffy’s head. They refuse, and his powers quickly reveal to Zoro that his strength and swordsmanship aren’t enough to win this fight. He offers himself in Luffy’s place in a confrontation that blurs the line between bargaining and begging. When questioned if he’s truly prepared to die while harboring his own dreams, Zoro answers that his ambitions mean nothing if he cannot protect his captain. Sanji appears and insists it be his own life instead, saying he’s always been prepared to sacrifice himself for his crew.

This pivotal moment highlights the similarities and stark contrasts between the two characters. Zoro’s offer is strategic; he sidesteps what he views as true failure by choosing to give up his life to save his captain. Sanji’s offer stems from a lack of self-worth, a character trait we explore further in future episodes. Ultimately, it’s Zoro who bears Luffy’s pain, the magnitude of which is expected to be fatal. Sanji finds Zoro’s battered, motionless form, and as he approaches, the music swells. When asked, Zoro answered that “nothing happened”.  While the interpretation of this moment as a victory for Zoro is open to discussion, his steadfast loyalty undeniably positions him as a true hero. [CJ]

Episode 309 “Feelings Put Into Fists! Luffy’s Full-Power Gatling” 

The battle between Luffy and Rob Lucci is a long, laborious fight that leaves Luffy continuously teetering. It’s not an easy win, and voice actress Mayumi Tanaka makes us feel the breathless exhaustion that Luffy experiences as he lies nearly defeated in Episode 309. As we watch the rest of the Straw Hats — plus Franky, not yet having officially joined the crew — fight and defeat the marines that chase them, demonstrating their continued mounting power, their figurehead lays immobilized. The episode’s emotional peak comes when Usopp reveals himself to Luffy following their heart-wrenching fight. Usopp’s belief in Luffy and Luffy’s desire to support Robin and prove the Marines wrong helps Luffy deliver one more devastating blow. It’s an excellent example of payoff as every punch thrown is worked for, and group efforts scale every mental hurdle. [AJ]

Episode 312 “Thank you Merry! The Sea of Separation in the Snow”

The Going Merry as the Straw Hat crew’s first vessel out into the grant line is a symbol of the first major leg of their journey. Usopp’s connection with the Merry as its shipwright from their departure in Syrup Village, through Skypia to Water 7 contextualizes some of the most emotional and mature themes in the series up to this point. His temporary departure from the crew and meeting with Franky makes for a perfect side plot to not only establish the soul within the ship and the treacheries of the journey, but also as a personal growth moment for Usopp, granting us such gems as Sogeking and his super sentai anthem.

Even for Luffy and the other Straw Hats, breaking Robin free from Enies Lobby proves to be their hardest test to this point. When Luffy for the first time shows signs of true, genuine exhaustion, his friends get him over the finish line with a final sacrifice by the merry. The burning of the vessel that gave them all it had, after such a trying battle, is a shockingly emotional sendoff for a boat that saw these characters through the earliest trials of their journey that, by this point, fans will look upon with a quant nostalgia as the journey ahead grows more difficult with their notoriety and power. [Evan Griffin]

Episode 380 “Binks’ Sake – The Song that Connects the Past and Present” 

Brook’s journey strikes a chord within viewers as he navigates his ship alongside the spirits of his departed crewmates. Their presence on screen serves as a poignant reminder of his profound loss, which often gets overshadowed by his comedic persona. In Episode 380, we watch Brook cry out with joy upon seeing his past crewmates, only to quickly learn he was dreaming. Brook’s story is marked by loneliness. As we observe the Rumbar pirates fall one by one on the deck, our hearts ache as he declares, “If we’re going to die anyway, let’s enjoy the experience.” Their lively saloon-style song evolves into a sort of requiem for those who have been lost, maintaining its cheerful rhythm while undoubtedly somber in tone. This episode is painful, yet undeniably beautiful. [CJ]

Episode 396 “The Fist Explodes! Destroy the Auction”

The power of “The Fist Explodes! Destroy the Auction” is twofold. First, the narrative itself. At this point, Luffy has fought the Marines, the world government, and even a God and come out victorious. Going against the Celestial Dragons is a whole other beast. His righteous fury is impenetrable after Saint Charlos shoots Hatchan, expressing his indignation over his friends being hurt and inability to envision a world without freedom. The human auction house is one of the most reprehensible things within the world of One Piece, making it fitting that his grandstand happens along its inhumane pews. 

But it’s the animation that delivers the final, breathless blow. The line work blurs, so it becomes jagged and raw, the punch itself draining the sequence of color. His anger is palpable, and that kinetic energy hums in the animation, which utilizes movement and motion over accuracy to amplify the moment’s feelings. As Law and Captain Kid watch on in their first real introduction to Luffy, it helps solidify the moment as crucial. There’s a triumph to Luffy’s punch. But there’s a sense of deep unease, too, as we wonder if he can escape such an action unscathed. [AJ] 

Episode 405 “Disappearing Crew – The Final Day of the Straw Hat Crew”

There is something so inescapably mournful when the Straw Hat Crew is separated. While Luffy’s fight with the Celestial Dragon promised retribution, the final consequence is devastating. Episode 405 is critical for the ensuing story as it divides our main group, leaving our protagonist emotionally eviscerated. As we move throughout the series, we learn that Luffy believes being alone is a worse fate than death, making the sequence where he furiously, petulantly, childishly pounds and digs his fingers into the earth below him over his perceived inability to save a single member of his crew even more heartbreaking.

The entire onslaught by Kuma is shot with precise tension and anxious unease, as we await the seeming inevitable. Luffy’s crew is strong, but their tireless strength is limited, and it ends here. The dread-inducing sequence of events, from the impenetrable Zoro being the first to disappear to Chopper’s uncontrollable rampage and Robin’s plea for Luffy, a dark mimicry of her declaration of life, creates a grievous portrait of emotional carnage. [AJ]

Episode 440 “Believe in Miracles! Bon Kurei Cheers From His Heart”

Several characters are instrumental to Luffy’s survival of Impel Down. Bon Kurei is the first and, subsequently, becomes possibly the best non-Straw Hat character of the entire series. Episode 440 demonstrates the immense world and character-building One Piece is capable of. Because who knew that such an absurd character would prove to be so emotionally integral to Luffy’s ability to press through the agonizing healing hormones Ivakov injected him with? His proud, declarative support of Luffy is admirable and shockingly moving. The episode hones in on another Impel Down MVP, Ivakov, as these two societal outsiders reminisce on how they’ve survived such treacherous scenery. It’s subdued by One Piece standards. But it’s energized by remembering how alone Luffy currently is without his crew and Bon Kurei’s tireless plight to help keep the darkest moments of Luffy’s solitude at bay. It’s deceptively rousing. [AJ]

Episode 483 “Looking for the Answer – Fire Fist Ace Dies on the Battlefield”

Whether Portgaz D. Ace lives or dies is the fulcrum of One Piece’s monumental Paramount War. I was among a strange few who didn’t realize his fate until I turned the page on Volume 69 in Viz’s compilation volume titled “The Death of Ace.” While it seems obvious in retrospect, the loss of Ace following the tragedy of Sabody is a moment that strips away any sense of invincibility of Luffy as a character. With the emergence of Akainu and his magma fist as a new, most significant existential threat to Luffy and his compatriots, the loss of Ace shakes every central character to their core from the battlefield across the grand line.

This brings the momentum of One Piece’s journey before the New World to a contemplative halt. It redefines Luffy from thereon out as his outcast brother thanks him, sharing one moment of hope for his dream to become real before he dies. Two outcasts who leaned on one another to keep their hopes alive, which stoke the embers in the Straw Hat crew even after the time skip through many pivotal decisions. It is easy to take the Death of Ace for granted this far out, but it rocked the core of not just One Piece’s story but utterly shook the foundation of what impact can be done in a Shonen Jump production. [EG]

Episode 485 “Settling the Score – Whitebeard vs. The Blackbeard Pirates” 

“ONE PIECE… THE ONE PIECE IS REAL.” With his dying words, Edward Newgate, the Strongest Man in the World and the captain of the Whitebeard Pirates, officially closes the curtains on one era of piracy while simultaneously kicking down the door for the next (worst) generation. This narrative bombshell follows his unbelievably epic last stand at the ruins of Marineford, during which he sustained 267 sword wounds, 152 gunshots, and 46 cannon blasts. Whitebeard dies standing up without a single wound on his back, but this follows one of the series’ most savage scenes in which resident scumbag Blackbeard shows up to surprise his former captain with a sneak attack barrage of blades and bullets.

As one of the most significant climactic moments in the series’ most pivotal arc, the death of Whitebeard lands with the gravitas it deserves. We witness the level of shock from characters, reminding us of both how far Luffy has traveled and how large of a presence Whitebeard had in the World. Bursting with an incredible amount of iconic imagery, “Settling the Score – Whitebeard vs. The Blackbeard Pirates” is one of the most important and well-earned peaks of One Piece’s entire story and stands tall in reverence to the passing of the incomparable Emperor of the Sea. [QP]

Episode 496 “Someday to the Sea! The Oath Cups of the Three Brats!”

An episode showcasing both the importance One Piece places on found families and continuing its searing indictment of class inequality, “Someday to the Sea! The Oath Cups of the Three Brats!” features a cornerstone moment for the series. Following a delightful montage of Luffy, Ace, and Sabo living it up as adventuring rascals causing small-scale havoc on the Goa Kingdom, we are finally given Sabo’s backstory — he is the runaway son of a Noble living in shame and resentment towards his status.

Rather than react angrily or treat him differently, Ace brings out a bottle of sake (stolen from Dadan, of course) and three cups, telling Luffy and Sabo that if they share this drink, they will officially become brothers. Solidifying one of the most emotionally powerful relationships in One Piece, each brother promises to become a great pirate or, in Luffy’s case, the Pirate King, thus kicking off the official journey of the three brothers who will change the world.  [QP]

Episode 505 “I Want to See Them! Luffy’s Tearful Scream”

Emotionally and physically broken, the Luffy in Episode 505 is as far removed from the grinning, determined protagonist we’ve come to know and love. Mayumi Tanaka delivers a devastating performance, bringing a childlike heartache to Luffy as he rampages and yells at Jimbei to leave him alone to nurse his wounds. The pivotal moment in the episode is the twos standoff, as Jimbei tells him he has to be able to bottle his regret and look forward to who has left rather than who he’s lost. Luffy, usually so confident in his assertion that he’ll one day be the King of the Pirates, feels defeated, wondering how he could believe such a thing when he was too weak to save his brother.

Jimbei, in an act of tough love, tells him that, yes, he was defeated, but also that he went up against a group of some of the strongest adversaries in the world. He can learn from this moment but can’t do it alone. His mournful yell for his friends is the perfect cap to an emotionally fraught episode that reminds him just how crucial they are to his success. His grief is palpable, but he won’t drown from it because his people are keeping him afloat. The moment where Dadan knocks Garp on his ass is also nice, a reminder of those who stepped up, raised, and loved Ace and Luffy and, most importantly, know the pain Luffy endures in part due to Garp’s failing.[AJ]

Episode 678 “The Fire Fist Strikes! The Power of the Mera Mera no Mi Returns”

As one of the first of many climactic moments of the Dressrosa arc, “The Fire Fist Strikes! The Power of the Mera Mera no Mi Returns” is particularly noteworthy for two significant moments. The first is Sabo, disguised as Luffy/Lucy, claiming victory in the coliseum and eating the Flame-Flame Fruit, gaining the powers of his brother, Ace. This is as perfect as a narrative circle can get in One Piece, with Ace’s will and legacy living on through the only person it ever really could have gone to — although the weight of Luffy’s offering of it to Franky at the start of the tournament shouldn’t be downplayed — while also closing out the frustrating slog of the coliseum arc on a high note.

The other incredible event in the episode is Usopp’s ascent to godhood following a series of mixups down in the trade port, during which he ends up freeing the toys from their captivity of over a decade. This lands as both a poignant moment of hope while also being one of the most hands-down hilarious moments in the series, with the iconic imagery of a barely breathing “Captain Usopp” being held up and declared a hero at the same time as the ceiling collapses. He ends bathed in golden light, a moment that becomes immortalized when it becomes his new bounty poster. [QP]

Episode 706 “Advance, Law – The Kindhearted Man’s Final Fight!

As becomes customary to One Piece, Law’s backstory is expectedly devastating. While the entire mini-arc exploring his childhood illness and first meeting with Doflamingo is all interesting, his relationship with Doflamingo’s brother, Corozan, leaves the most significant impact. So much of the heartache and beauty of One Piece comes packaged within these backstories because it’s not just about the tragedies they face but the unexpected kindness that reaches out to the characters in their darkest times. From Saul to Zeff, we watch and time again as the younger versions of these characters are shocked by the compassion they’re offered after a lifetime of hardship. Corozan is that to Law. Law eating the Ope Ope no Mi devil fruit cures him of his illness and the stigma that follows him, severing him from Doflamingo’s influence.

His death is heartbreaking, even if there’s an element of triumph as Corazon faces down his brother to save Law. And the final image of child Law, bawling as fire canons drown out his now audible cries, signifying Corazon’s passing? A beautiful, haunting touch. [AJ]

Episode 723 “A Collision of Haki – Luffy vs. Doflamingo”

Much like episode 37, this episode is about the Dressrosa situation reaching a point where Luffy must face Doflamingo directly. Before the halfway point of this episode, Law gets to give his all to try to put the Warlord down. It’s not quite enough, and the anime gets to show off the power of two Conqueror’s Haki users in full. Yes, the episode commits the same sins as the rest of Dressrosa, in that it soaks up every free second it can. Even so, the time it does spend focuses on making sure Doflamingo is the biggest threat Luffy’s yet faced. There’s a moment where all the loathing that fuels Doflamingo’s evil dreams boils over and drastically changes his animation. He becomes a towering force yet again, an unyielding grin over his awful face. The episode is a fantastic intro to Luffy’s first true post-timeskip battle. [TH] 

Episode 753 “A Deadly Elephant Climb – A Great Adventure on the Back of the Giant Elephant!”

Listen, sometimes a silly gag gets you. I won’t say that “A Deadly Elephant Climb” is necessarily integral, but goddamn, is it funny. The sincerity of the partially formed crew cheering “Ryunosuke” on and the multiple hurdles this crude drawing of a dragon must endure to ensure their safe passage all add up in hilarity. But the best moment, bar none is when Ryunosuke turns back into a dragon and Luffy, Usopp, Franky, and Robin all mourn, the dragon’s smiling face set against the sunset. Peak absurd comedy. [AJ]

764 “To My Buds – Sanji’s Farewell Note” 

Sanji embodies a self-sacrificing spirit. Throughout the series, he consistently puts his own safety at risk to protect his crewmates from harm. This is particularly evident in Episode 764. When his past resurfaces, Sanji acknowledges the looming threat posed by Big Mom and the serious repercussions of confronting an enemy they are not yet ready to challenge. He chooses to part ways with the Straw Hats to avoid being a burden. Approaching Nami, he leaves her a note while assuring her, “Believe this if nothing else. I didn’t mean to hide anything from my friends.”

As Sanji hurls his crewmates out of Bege’s miniature fortress, he resigns himself to his fate, hoping that his friends will continue pursuing their own dreams. While his selflessness has been a recurring theme, and glimpses of his backstory hinted at, Episode 764 beautifully paves the way for Sanji’s rich character evolution. All of which is backdropped by the gorgeously textured setting of Zou. [CJ]

Episode 774 “A Battle to Defend Zou – Luffy and Zunesha!”

As bite-sized as it is, the Zou arc possesses enormous lore and significant reveals. That, plus the watercolor-style effects of the artwork, makes it an engaging viewing experience that steeps itself into the essence of One Piece. Episode 774 adds to the level of significance the arc brings with it. Luffy and Momonosuke realize they can hear Zunesha’s voice in their heads. Zunesha tells them he’s suffering a punishment that dooms him to walking the seas for eternity.

As Jack attacks them, he tells Momonosuke that the only way he can fight back is if Momonosuke orders him to do so. It’s decisive for Momo and his character, especially as he’s on the way to Wano and learning leadership elements. But it also strengthens the ties between Momo, Luffy, and Zunesha. That link and the epic way it announces itself marks a notable shift in the story as it streamlines its tone, converging multiple power players, their histories, and inherited wills.[AJ]

Episode 808 “A Heartbreaking Duel – Luffy vs. Sanji – Part 2″

As one of the emotional peaks of Whole Cake Island, the one-sided fight between Luffy and Sanji is eviscerating. It peels back layers of Sanji’s character while demonstrating Luffy’s considerable growth. With open hostility, Sanji brutally attacks Luffy as he remembers his abusive father, Judge, and his threats to his hands and Zeff. It’s yet another example of his self-sacrifice, and this time, it hurts. But what truly makes this a standout episode is the distinctive narrative subtly that underlies the dynamic visuals. And it all culminates in the final moments as Sanji and his siblings leave Luffy and Nami behind.

The gorgeously rendered score delivers more melancholy than we’re used to, the sweeping strings undercutting Luffy’s passionate declaration. And it amplifies two striking elements. First, Sanji’s muted tears are a notable pivot from a series where exaggerated and big emotions take precedence, from Looney Tune-style facial expressions to Ghibli-style tears and face-splitting grins. It is a series where laughter is crucial in defining a character’s personality. It indicates how much of himself is tucked away in front of his family of birth, compared to his family of choice. But there’s also Luffy’s promise that he won’t become King of the Pirates without Sanji — and that he will sit and starve until Sanji returns to them, only willing to eat Sanji’s food. Two characters bonded together by the promise of the sea’s limitless range, driven by food in differing capacities, both refusing fuel to their fires. Gorgeous, ruinous writing. [AJ]

Episode 825 “Liar – Luffy and Sanji”

Sanji presents a heart-wrenching image, racing through the rain in his princely attire while clutching a battered basket of food as he desperately searches a field of bodies for his captain. Upon finding him, Sanji struggles to make eye contact and admits feeling trapped, expressing guilt for insulting and attacking Luffy in an attempt to push him away. He also reveals that Zeff and the Baratie restaurant, along with his family, have been taken hostage. Despite experiencing abuse from his father and brothers, Sanji grapples with feelings of justified resentment while struggling to abandon them entirely. For those reasons, Sanji doesn’t believe he can return to the Straw Hats. Luffy’s reaction is characteristic; he literally knocks sense into Sanji with a single punch, exclaiming, “Say what you really want!”

His words strike Sanji to the core as he weeps and expresses his longing to return to the Sunny in a heartbreaking delivery from Hiroaki Hirata. However, he believes he lacks the courage to run. His breakdown is devastating but crucial. This episode is a beautiful reminder that the people who care for you will stick around whether you ask them to or not. Sanji confronts a significant aspect of his character: his fear of being a burden to those around him. This reunion reaches its beautiful culmination as the sun breaks through the clouds, visually representing Sanji’s return home. The score hits its sweeping peak as the two move forward together. [CJ]

Episode 914 “Finally Clashing – The Ferocious Luffy vs. Kaido”

Wano’s tone and animated style announce itself loudly and clearly from the jump. But it takes until Episode 914 for us to fully see the enormity of the quality shift the series undergoes. Rightfully so, considering it’s the first brawl between Luffy and Emperor of the Sea, Kaido. Luffy’s rage about Kaido possibly hurting his friends is palpable in his movements, and the visuals synergize with his fury. The animation unleashes itself as Luffy attacks, with a kinetic, vibrating flow that seamlessly tracks the fight with cohesive movements. It’s a necessary adrenaline rush demonstrating Kaido’s considerable power — drunken or not. [AJ]

Episode 957 “Big News! An Incident That Will Affect the Seven Warlords”

One Piece has a remarkable skill at handling transitional arcs that in other series would feel like a chore to get through before the next big thing. “Big News! An Incident That Will Affect the Seven Warlords” proudly continues this tradition. Following the conclusion of the tumultuous Reverie, the world is once again shaken up. Sabo faces a damning accusation due to Big News Morgans much to the distress of his fellow revolutionaries. X Drake is working with the Marines as the head of SWORD. And, in the biggest mic drop of the episode, there’s the reveal that the delegates of the Reverie have abolished the system of the Seven Warlords of the Sea.

The impact of this reverberates across the sea as the Marines immediately accost Buggy, Weevil, Mihawk, and Boa Hancock. The build-up to this reveal teases itselfk throughout the episode so that when we finally discover what happened, the audience feels just as caught off guard as the Warlords. As one of the final moments before the start of the mammoth-sized Wano arc, this episode is vital for setting the stages for the series’ end game and does so with exhilarating efficiency.  [QP]

Episode 968 “The Pirate King is Born – Arriving at the Last Island!”

Perhaps this is a difference between being able to binge-watch One Piece versus watching week-to-week, but it’s shocking how well the Oden backstory works. It’s endlessly gripping as it helps tie together the pasts of characters we’ve come to know — from White Beard and Marco to the younger versions of Shanks and Buggy. But the most interesting happened with Gol D. Roger. Episode 968 is chill-inducing as Oden travels with Roger’s crew to the island at the end of the new world, Laugh Tale.

It’s shot with a hypotonic amount of charisma as Roger and his crew laugh at whatever sights they see upon arrival. But it’s when Roger thanks the mysterious Joy Boy for the treasure he left him that makes it such a tremendously moving sequence. At this point, we don’t know how it ties together with our Straw Hat crew. It doesn’t diminish the all-encompassing magnetism of the moment. It’s euphoric and tantalizing as yet another element of the series further unfolds. [AJ]

Episode 981 “A New Member! Knight of the Sea Jinbe!”

In Episode 981, Jimbei, a character who has long waited in the wings, makes his debut as a member of the Straw Hat Pirates. His arrival offers a sense of hope, making the daunting scale of the battle ahead feel a bit less overwhelming with such a reliable ally by their side. The sea briefly settles, and the rain lightens as Luffy launches himself at Jimbei. The excitement of his arrival overshadows the immediate dangers they face. Jimbei stations himself at the wheel, and they continue their way in search of booze (which Zoro can locate from a distance) to toast their new member.

Other ships discuss strategy and battle plans for when they reach Onigashima, while the Straw Hats plow forward to the Torii gate with a single-minded determination. As they utilize their individual strengths to force their way ashore, we are reminded that, despite the grand narratives that often emphasize their heroism, it is their spirit that truly marks them as pirates. [CJ]

Episode 982 “Kaido’s Trump Card – The Tobi Roppo Appear”

Don’t understate the work and influence of Megumi Ishitani on One Piece. Her electric — cinematic style drives the series towards more ambitious visuals. Episode 982 is an absolute stunner, not just in the major sequences. With Jimbei officially reunited with the crew, they set forth with their allied forces to charge into Onigashima. The contrast between the allied forces, Queen, and the Tobiroppo is stark in aesthetics. The former exudes warmth and hope through an abudance of reds as the fire lights their desires and hopes to ignite the screen. The latter slathers itself in greens, the sickly underworld infecting the world of Wano.

The level of artistry is extraordinary, actively defying expectations. There’s a richness to the framing and direction that captures the depth and scope of the sequence. From the darkened lines that add contrast and shadows to Luffy’s micro-movements and expressions, as his plans to welcome Jimbei properly are aborted. The work harmoniously balances the celebratory tone of the Straw Hat crew with the triumphant determination of Kin’emon and his forces. All thematic threads are given greater life in the momentous lighting that provides the episode with its epic scale. This isn’t the ragtag group we once knew. Luffy and co are formidable, so the animation reaches out to meet them. [AJ]

Episode 995 “Raid! Inheriting Oden’s Will”

It’s easy to forget how much time we spend with Kin’emon, but our history with him allows for greater emotional deliverance in Episode 995. The onslaught of the Nine Red Scabbards is shot with dynamism and propulsive energy that has us on the edge of our seats. While there have been many attempted attacks, this moment feels like the decisive start of the battle. The episode shines earlier with moments between the always charismatic Yamato and Luffy and Momo revealing his name to Kaido and accepting the threats his legacy brings him.

But the shift in style and tone during their invasion ignites the screen. Wano might not be everyone’s favorite arc, but it’s where the animation flourishes with creativity. The black-and-white start of the battle and the physicality of their opponents bring a grandiosity to the screen. The direction wants us to acknowledge the innate heroism of these characters, and we do. [AJ]

Episode 1000 “Overwhelming Strength! The Straw Hats Come Together”

To celebrate the truly mind boggling milestone of a thousand episodes, the anime gets a bit self-indulgent. Episode 1000 doesn’t really move the plot of the raid forward much, but it makes up for it with some great action and a heap load of nostalgia. There’s the remake of the original “We Are” OP, complete with Wano costumes and a staggering sense of time passing. Each Straw Hat gets an individual attack on members of Kaido’s crew, a cute child animation, and a flashback showing the anime’s journey to this point.

Purists might scoff at an episode dedicated only to getting the Straw Hats together for a cool group pose. They might even point to it as an argument for the anime not needing to even reach 1000 episodes. But then the iconic “Overtaken” theme plays over that cool group pose, flashing between various other times the crew comes together, and even the coldest heart gives into the hype. [TH]

Episode 1015 “Straw Hat Luffy – The Man Who Will Become the Pirate King”

Megumi Ishitani does it again with the glorious, transcendent Episode 1015, which many would argue is the best singular episode of One Piece. From the beginning, the animation pulsates with an unfamiliar hum, adding depth and scope to the scenes where Ace and Yamato bond in the past. Fitting, then, that “Straw Hat Luffy – The Man Who Will Become the Pirate King” is so tightly wound around the notion of life and how people are intrinsically linked through circumstance and ideals. Fate and destiny are critical elements of the series that continuously sink their teeth into the story. Through Yamato, we see how Luffy and Roger share a dream, something that loops their lives together greater still.The story, adapted from chapter 1000 of the manga, is deeply meaningful.

There’s a thrumming tension that reverberates through Yamato’s past to Luffy finally reaching the roof to fight Kaido as the Nine Red Scabbards lay decimated. Ishitani achieves a cinematic grace to the art direction that flows with the central story, distinguishing different eras through deliberate color pallets that offer the episode a dreamlike quality. The animation positively stuns from the color shifts in the flashback that overlays Luffy’s dream with Roger’s to the blood-soaked red that adorns Luffy’s walk up until the Red Roc punch. But perhaps, amidst these gorgeously rendered frames and action, both character-driven and mid-battle, the singular sight is Luffy himself. The contrasting colors, deep set lines, and the dip of his signature hat all paint a portrait of a wiser, more mature captain. Destiny pushes him here and the legacy behind him is herculean. [AJ]

Episode 1017 “A Barrage of Powerful Techniques! The Fierce Attacks of the Worst Generation!”

Some of the strongest fighters of the Worst Generation continue their fight against Kaido and Big Mom in episode 1017. Luffy and Zoro’s growth has not gone unnoticed throughout the series, but it has never been as blatantly obvious as watching them go head-to-head against the Emperors. The barrage of attacks hits at a relentless tempo as the score leans into guitar-heavy riffs. As the animation propels you forward at breakneck speed, you can’t help but find yourself grinning at the fierce display of power from our captains and their right hands. The vibrant colors throughout the episode are captivating, making each strike feel palpable. This is One Piece at its most exhilarating. [CJ]

Episode 1061 “The Strike of an Ifrit! Sanji vs. Queen”

Sanji’s significant period of growth doesn’t stop at Whole Cake Island. Instead, it reaches through into Wano as he must cope with the realization that using the Raid Suit created by his family may have finally awakened genetic mutations that have modified him, making him stronger. However, with that strength comes his immense fear that he’ll succumb to the cold, inhumane nature his brothers possess. In Episode 1061, Sanji faces that fear head-on in his final showdown with Queen, who uses Germa’s equipment in his fighting style. It’s thematically dynamic, offering Sanji solace through a violent reckoning as he combines his past fighting styles with these present changes, channeling his fury into his new attack, Ifrit Jambe.

The fight’s color scheme roars with the attack’s electrical buzz, saturated blue. The direction captures Sanji’s ever-accelerating speed as the surroundings blur in his attack, his singular theme playing in the background. But amid battle, the episode goes for the jugular with the dream sequence of Sanji seeing Zeff before running to the sunkissed horizon where his crew waits for him. His humanity remains intact as he tethers himself to those he loves and who care for him, remembering that he isn’t a weapon but a pirate. [AJ]

Episode 1062 “The Three-Sword Style of the Supreme King! Zoro vs. King”

As the climax of what is (to-date) Zoro’s biggest solo fight, “The Three-Sword Style of the Supreme King! Zoro vs. King,” has a lot to live up to. Luckily, it delivers in spades, as Zoro makes a last stand after figuring out King’s weakness and learning his backstory, which is a massive reveal for the series as we get details on the Lunarians for the first time. Imbuing his swords with his newfound Supreme King Haki and taking full advantage of the unleashed power of his sword Enma, Zoro attacks with the incredibly named King of Hell, Three-Sword Serpent: 103 Mercies Dragon Damnation attack.

This is where the power of this episode truly lands, as the seismic shock of the sequence blows apart both Onigashima and our screens. The green lightning of Zoro’s Haki flashing and blending with the dragon fire of King’s ultimate attack as they clash in the sky is the peak of the Wano’s specific art style. Still, it stays true to how we have seen Zoro attack in the past, leading to some of the most breathtaking art in all of One Piece. [QP]

Episode 1071 “Luffy’s Peak – Attained! Gear 5”

A vibrant, ecstatic explosion of color and mayhem, Luffy’s Gear 5 welcomes a new era of One Piece. Following a long and tumultuous fight with Kaido, Luffy gains a momentous upper hand in his Gear 5 form. The elasticity of the animation reaches new heights to demonstrate his considerable power, and the screen and framing bend to Luffy’s will as everything he touches becomes rubber. Defying the laws of gravity, the animation goes full Looney Toons in its approach, bombastic and gleeful in how Luffy now fills the screen.

But it’s not just the visuals that stun. In a chill-inducing moment, we realize how coveted his Devil Fruit really is, as the Government has spent decades trying to find it. His fruit is the Hito Hito no Mi, transforming into Nika, the Sun God, once held by Joyboy. A fitting title for the power, as the effect is exuberant and joyous, the drums gathering and swelling in the backdrop and the animation blurring and rising with the beat of the music. [AJ]

Episode 1100 “Powers on a Different Level! Luffy vs. Lucci!”

Featuring the unexpected and narratively potent rematch between Luffy and his old foe, Rob Lucci, “Powers on a Different Level! Luffy vs. Lucci!” showcases the evolution the series’ animation has gone through over the last few years. The artistry in Egghead is singular in its mission, standing toe to toe with the best anime currently has to offer. This duel pushes it to its limits. As our first time seeing Luffy use Gear 5th in a more “casual” fight than his battle with Kaido, the series gifts us with the outrageous transformation scene that takes the Looney Tunes influence to the extreme before tapping into the edgier side of Nika that had previously only been hinted at. The moment when Lucci blinks, and a red-eyed and demonically grinning Luffy is suddenly in his face takes your breath away and holds it hostage.

Not only featuring what is maybe the most uniquely animated fight in the series, which literally has Luffy rewriting the rules of physics and utilizes the most elastic camera and character movements this side of Science Saru, but we also learn the stunning news that there has never been a Gum-Gum Fruit and that the Devil Fruit that gives Luffy his powers is known as the Mythical Zoan type known as the Human-Human Fruit, Model: Nika. If you want to show someone an episode to demonstrate just how far the series has grown from its roots, you can’t do much better than this. [QP]

Episode 1112 “Clash! Shanks vs. Eustass D. Kid”

We don’t know much about Eustass Kid. Compared to Law, another captain from the worst generation, our understanding of Kid remains limited. We know Kid through his actions and his behavior. He’s loud, aggressive, taking extreme measures to achieve his goals. And it’s clear that he deeply appreciates his relationship with Killer. Their bond serves as a powerful element of his characterization. This connection makes Episode 1112 emotionally impactful. Confronting Shanks is foolish, and while Kid is undoubtedly powerful, you can’t help but fear for him from the moment battle is imminent. Shanks remains an enigmatic figure. Yes, we often see him in primarily lighthearted moments. But he’s one of the Four Emperors — he speaks to the Five Elders. He’s a threat, no matter his nature.

As Saloon music plays and the frame coats itself in the warm glow of the setting sun, the ensuing battle sneaks up on us. In a major fakeout, the series rips the rug out from under us as Shanks advances with chilling intensity. The result is heartbreaking.  We see Kid at the helm of his ship, proudly declaring to Killer that he’s en route to becoming King of the Pirates. As Killer laughs, Kid notices his injuries, revealing the true extent of the destruction caused by Shanks’ attack. The scene returns to the ship, bathed in vibrant, violent, splotches of red, as fire and smoke fill the air. Shanks slowly approaches, and we realize the Kid Pirates were doomed from the start. [CJ]

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Images courtesy of Toei Animation and Crunchyroll.