Since launching in 1997, Eiichiro Oda’s One Piece has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. This iconic manga has not only introduced a vast array of characters and captivating stories but has also created a complex world filled with adventure, friendship, and epic battles. With numerous arcs released over the years, fans often find themselves debating which ones stand out as the best and which ones fall short. To help navigate this expansive universe, we’ve taken on the challenge of ranking every major One Piece arc from worst to best!
As we delve into the world of One Piece, it’s essential to recognize that the series comprises an astounding number of story arcs, each crafted with its unique themes and character developments. Some arcs span multiple volumes and feature intense climactic moments, while others are condensed into just a handful of chapters. Our ranking will focus on the major arcs of One Piece, known as sagas, which typically revolve around significant goals such as defeating formidable foes, rescuing allies, or executing grand plans that reshape the world’s foundation.
With the Final Saga currently underway, we will be focusing on ten notable arcs and sagas for this ranking. Each arc is evaluated based on its narrative strength, character development, and overall impact on the One Piece universe. Here’s our curated list of the major arcs in One Piece, ranked from worst to best!
Putting an arc at the bottom of the list is often a standard practice, but many fans agree that the Fish-Man Island Saga is one of the weakest arcs in One Piece. After a significant time-skip, the Straw Hat Pirates reunite and showcase their newfound strength as they head to the underwater kingdom of Fish-Man Island. However, upon arrival, they quickly become entangled in a rebellion against extremist pirates, which highlights their growth.
The major issue with this arc is that it doesn’t focus on the Straw Hat crew as much as it should. While the best One Piece arcs feature the crew observing and interacting with their surroundings, Fish-Man Island spends too much time exploring themes of racism and slavery. The antagonist, Hody Jones, serves as a one-dimensional villain, making the stakes feel low and the action less engaging. While the arc does set up future plot points, it’s hard to see it as anything more than mediocre.
The Sky Island Saga stands out for its unique setting and isolated adventure. The Straw Hat Crew embarks on a journey in search of a rumored treasure floating on an island in the sky, only to get caught up in a conflict between guerilla warriors and a tyrannical ruler. Although it includes some memorable battles, such as Luffy's showdown with Eneru, the arc often feels disconnected from the larger narrative.
With moments of catharsis, the Sky Island Arc contributes to the overall experience of One Piece but lacks significant ties to other arcs. It’s enjoyable but fails to leave a lasting impact on the series, making it a middle-tier entry among the rankings.
Thriller Bark is a singular arc packed with horror-themed elements and comedic moments. The Straw Hat Pirates find themselves on Thriller Bark, an island-sized ship where the villain Gecko Moria is creating an army of zombies. This arc is notable for featuring the only instance where the entire Straw Hat Crew teams up against a single enemy.
While it lacks in narrative complexity, it excels in pure entertainment value, showcasing the series' unique ghostly aesthetic. If you want to grasp the essence of One Piece in a concentrated form, Thriller Bark serves as a fun representation of the series.
The East Blue Saga lays the groundwork for the entire One Piece journey. It introduces us to the various arcs that chronicle the early adventures of the crew and how they came together. This initial journey is filled with comedic moments and emphasizes the crew's naivety as they face the harsh realities of the pirate world.
This saga does an excellent job of establishing character dynamics, particularly among Nami, Zoro, and Sanji, demonstrating how their experiences shape their personalities. While it may appear low-stakes compared to later arcs, the East Blue Saga remains essential in understanding what makes One Piece unique.
The Whole Cake Island Saga is a journey filled with emotional depth and action. It centers around Sanji’s decision to marry Big Mom’s daughter and the ensuing rescue mission led by Luffy. Although the beginning might feel slow as the crew navigates the complexities of this new world, the second half transforms into a thrilling chase against one of the series' most formidable antagonists.
This arc balances character development with action, showcasing each crew member's strengths and weaknesses. Despite its flaws, the unique ending makes it one of the standout moments in the series, leaving a lasting impression on fans.
The Wano arc is pivotal in the overarching narrative of One Piece, serving as the climax of numerous storylines. It culminates in a massive showdown against some of the most powerful foes the Straw Hat Pirates have ever faced. However, the sheer
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