When it comes to storytelling, Eiichiro Oda’s flagship series, One Piece, is nothing short of a masterpiece. Since 1997, the pirate-filled shonen has grown into one of the greatest, most-beloved stories of all time. After so many years of adventure, comedy, and fantastic fight scenes, there is no shortage of fan-favorite narrative arcs to choose from within the series.
For some fans, many of One Piece's best moments occur around the start of the show. Others claim that Monkey D. Luffy's adventures pick up steam as they go, resulting in higher-quality story arcs across the board during the series' second half. In reality, every One Piece arc has been a success since its inception, and its best sequences are spread throughout the entirety of its impressive 25-year syndication.
Updated on December 26, 2023, by Kennedy King & Ajay Aravind: One Piece has officially moved into what has been confirmed to be its final saga, placing Monkey D. Luffy within striking distance of his long-time goal — becoming the Pirate King. Because of these developments, more and more fans are reflecting upon the legacy left by each of the series' narrative arcs. While every one of these story arcs adds something to the series, there are a few that are still far superior to their peers.
32
The Romance Dawn Arc Is The Commencement Of Luffy's Journey
Episodes 1-3
Related
The Netflix One Piece live-action's Luffy and Usopp join the anime cast as they recreate one of the most iconic scenes from the entire series.
Every great shonen journey starts somewhere, and for Monkey D. Luffy and Roronoa Zoro, that somewhere is One Piece's Romance Dawn arc. During this brief One Piece arc (which comprises the show's first three episodes), Luffy makes his desire to become the Pirate King known far and wide, starting with his pink-haired acquaintance, Koby.
In addition to Luffy, viewers also receive their first glimpse of Roronoa Zoro during the Romance Dawn arc — the swordsman's iconic introduction in Shells Town is still a highlight of the series over two decades later. These massive character introductions get One Piece started on the perfect note, and for this reason alone, the Romance Dawn Arc deserves its laurels.
Romance Dawn Episode #
|
Title
|
1.
|
I'm Luffy! The Man Who's Gonna Be King of the Pirates!
|
2.
|
Enter the Great Swordsman! Pirate Hunter Roronoa Zoro!
|
3.
|
Morgan versus Luffy! Who's the Mysterious Pretty Girl?
|
31
The Orange Town Arc Begins With The Straw Hats In Dire Straits
Episodes 4-8
When the Orange Town arc begins, the Straw Hat Pirates are in dire straits. Neither Monkey D. Luffy nor Roronoa Zoro possesses any navigational abilities, which results in them floating adrift until they stumble upon the quiet island housing Orange Town.
By the end of the Orange Town arc, Luffy and Zoro are introduced to two characters who go on to play major roles in One Piece's narrative: Nami and Buggy the Clown. The introduction of these two characters alone would cement this arc's place in One Piece history. However, thanks to a few fun fights between the Straw Hat trio and the Buggy Pirates, this arc also slots among the show's best.
Orange Town Episode #
|
Title
|
4.
|
Luffy's Past! The Red-Haired Shanks Appears!
|
5.
|
Fear, Mysterious Power! Pirate Clown Captain Buggy!
|
6.
|
Desperate Situation! Beast Tamer Mohji vs. Luffy!
|
7.
|
Epic Showdown! Swordsman Zoro vs. Acrobat Cabaji!
|
8.
|
Who is the Victor? Devil Fruit Power Showdown!
|
30
The Syrup Village Arc Is When Usopp Comes Into The Picture
Episodes 9-18
Although the formation of the Straw Hat Pirates technically occurs in One Piece's first episode, it isn't until the Syrup Village arc that the group finally starts to feel like a cohesive unit. By the end of their struggle against Kuro and the Black Cat Pirates, Luffy, Zoro, Usopp, and Nami are all firmly committed to one another as friends.
Kuro's dastardly plan to annihilate the inhabitants of Syrup Village forces the town's loudmouthed sniper to spring to action. Because of his courage, the Straw Hat Pirates defeat one of the East Blue's most heinous pirate crews. Despite being one of the shortest entries in the list of One Piece arcs, the events of Syrup Village are substantial enough to justify a rewatch for even the most die-hard fans.
Syrup Village Episode #
|
Title
|
9.
|
The Honorable Liar? Captain Usopp!
|
10.
|
The Weirdest Guy Ever! Jango the Hypnotist!
|
11.
|
Expose the Plot! Pirate Butler, Captain Kuro!
|
12.
|
Clash with the Black Cat Pirates! The Great Battle on the Slope!
|
13.
|
The Terrifying Duo! Meowban Brothers vs. Zoro!
|
14.
|
Luffy Back In Action! Miss Kaya's Desperate Resistance!
|
15.
|
Beat Kuro! Usopp the Man's Tearful Resolve!
|
16.
|
Protect Kaya! The Usopp Pirates' Great Efforts!
|
17.
|
Anger Explosion! Kuro vs. Luffy! How It Ends!
|
18.
|
You're the Weird Creature! Gaimon and His Strange Friends!
|
29
The Baratie Arc Highlights Pieces Of Sanji's Backstory
Episodes 19-30
When the Straw Hat Pirates arrive on Baratie, they are still in their infancy as a crew. Although Nami is traveling with them, Luffy, Usopp, and Zoro are the only concrete members. However, by the end of this One Piece arc, Sanji joins the crew, filling one of its most needed roles — the ship's cook.
Watching Sanji's backstory with the chefs of Baratie brings tears to the eyes of even the most seasoned fans. Despite its significance, the highlight of these episodes has to be the appearance of Dracule Mihawk. His actions demonstrate the ceiling of power in the world of One Piece while also providing an iconic character moment for Roronoa Zoro.
Baratie Episode #
|
Title
|
19.
|
The Three-Sword Style's Past! Zoro and Kuina's Vow!
|
20.
|
Famous Cook! Sanji of the Sea Restaurant!
|
21.
|
Unwelcome Customer! Sanji's Food and Ghin's Debt!
|
22.
|
The Strongest Pirate Fleet! Commodore Don Krieg!
|
23.
|
Protect Baratie! The Great Pirate, Red Foot Zeff!
|
24.
|
Hawk-Eye Mihawk! The Great Swordsman Zor Falls at Sea!
|
25.
|
The Deadly Foot Technique Bursts Forth! Sanji vs. The Invincible Pearl!
|
26.
|
Zeff and Sanji's Dream! The Illusory All Blue!
|
27.
|
Cool-headed, Cold-hearted Demon! Pirate Fleet Chief Commander Ghin!
|
28.
|
I Won't Die! Fierce Battle, Luffy vs. Krieg!
|
29.
|
The Conclusion of the Deadly Battle! A Spear of Blind Determination!
|
30.
|
Set Sail! The Seafaring Cook Sets off with Luffy!
|
28
The Arlong Park Arc Marks The Moment One Piece Took Off Properly
Episodes 31-44
Most fans agree that the Arlong Park arc marks the moment when One Piece started to take off properly. Eiichiro Oda started to expand the One Piece world by introducing the concept of Fishmen and the Seven Warlords. It is also here that fans learn the truth about Nami's backstory, which as tragic as it is revealing.
Furthermore, this One Piece arc also features some of the highest stakes in the series at the time. With Nami's freedom and the lives of everyone in her hometown hanging in the balance, Luffy’s fight against the Arlong is packed with plenty of emotional intensity as well as casual destruction.
Arlong Park Episode #
|
Title
|
31.
|
The Worst Man in the Eastern Seas! Fishman Pirate Arlong!
|
32.
|
Witch of Cocoyashi Village! Arlong's Female Leader!
|
33.
|
Usopp Dead?! When is Luffy Going to Make Landfall?!
|
34.
|
Everyone's Gathered! Usopp Speaks the Truth About Nami!
|
35.
|
Untold Past! Female Warrior Bellemere!
|
36.
|
Survive! Mother Bellemere and Nami's Bond!
|
37.
|
Luffy Rises! Result of the Broken Promise!
|
38.
|
Luffy in Big Trouble! Fishmen vs. the Luffy Pirates!
|
39.
|
Luffy Submerged! Zoro vs. Hatchan the Octopus!
|
40.
|
Proud Warriors! Sanji and Usopp's Fierce Battles!
|
41.
|
Luffy at Full Power! Nami's Determination and the Straw Hat!
|
42.
|
Explosion! Fishman Arlong's Fierce Assault from the Sea!
|
43.
|
End of the Fishman Empire! Nami's My Friend!
|
44.
|
Setting Out with a Smile! Farewell, Hometown Cocoyashi Village!
|
27
The Loguetown Arc Represents A Juncture Point For The Straw Hats
Episodes 45-53
The Loguetown Arc represents a bit of a juncture point for the Straw Hat Pirates. As their last stop in East Blue, Loguetown signals the true beginning of Monkey D. Luffy's journey as a pirate. There, he encounters characters like Monkey D. Dragon, Buggy the Clown, and Captain Smoker, eventually being placed in the same pillory as Gol D. Roger himself.
With its vast array of characters and attachment to the lore of One Piece, the Loguetown Arc foreshadows many elements of Luffy's journey across the Grand Line. Although the liminal nature of the Straw Hats' stop at Loguetown limits the arc's potential, it is still one of the best sequences in the entire series.
Loguetown Episode #
|
Title
|
45.
|
Bounty! Straw Hat Luffy Becomes Known to the World!
|
46.
|
Chase Straw Hat! Little Buggy's Big Adventure!
|
47.
|
The Wait is Over! The Return of Captain Buggy!
|
48.
|
The Town of the Beginning and the End! Landfall at Loguetown!
|
49.
|
Kitetsu III and Yubashiri! Zoro's New Sword and the Woman Sergeant Major!
|
50.
|
Usopp vs. Daddy the Parent! Showdown at High!
|
51.
|
Fiery Cooking Battle? Sanji vs. the Beautiful Chef!
|
52.
|
Buggy's Revenge! The Man Who Smiles on the Execution Platform!
|
53.
|
The Legend Has Started! Head for the Grand Line!
|
26
The Reverse Mountain Arc Introduces Multiple Important Characters
Episodes 62 & 63
Related
Luffy has done many things during his adventures to shorten his life expectancy. Rubber pirate or not, if he keeps pushing himself, he'll soon die.
One Piece's Reverse Mountain Arc only consists of two episodes, but despite its brevity, it introduces multiple characters that will likely play a role in the series' final saga. Crocus, Laboon, and Nefertari Vivi all make their on-screen debut during this stretch, which officially signals the Straw Hat Pirates' entry into the Grand Line.
Laboon's attempt to break through the Red Line and reunite with the pirate crew that left him behind is a striking image, and given its connection to Brook's addition to the Straw Hat Pirates, it's easily one of the highlights of the Alabasta Saga. This, as well as Crocus' relationship to Gol D. Roger and Vivi's connection to the World Government, is a major reason why the Reverse Mountain Arc has aged like fine wine.
Reverse Mountain Episode #
|
Title
|
62.
|
The First Line of Defense? The Giant Whale Laboon Appears!
|
63.
|
A Promise Between Men! Luffy and the Whale Vow to Meet Again!
|
25
The Whiskey Peak Arc Brings Bounty Hunting Into The Picture
Episode 64-67
Bounty hunters are frequently mentioned throughout the One Piece timeline, yet it isn't until the Whiskey Peak Arc that they play any significant role on-screen. When the inhabitants of Whiskey Peak welcome the Straw Hat Pirates with open arms, none of the series' protagonists bat an eye. Unfortunately, these citizens turn out to be bounty hunters working for Baroque Works, introducing Luffy and his crew to the criminal syndicate.
Two of Baroque Works' strongest officers, Mr. 5 and Miss Valentine, show up during this arc, but Luffy and Zoro instantly prove that they are leaps-and-bounds stronger by quickly dispatching the pair. Shortly after, the Straw Hat Pirates commit to helping Nefertari Vivi return to Alabasta — a promise that eventually manifests in the crew's first fight against a Warlord of the Sea.
Whiskey Peak Episode #
|
Title
|
64.
|
A Town That Welcomes Pirates! Setting Foot on Whiskey Peak!
|
65.
|
Explosion! The Three Swords Style! Zoro vs. Baroque Works!
|
66.
|
All Out Battle! Luffy vs. Zoro, Mysterious Grand Duel!
|
67.
|
Deliver Princess Vivi! The Luffy Pirates Set Sail!
|
24
The Diary Of Koby-Meppo Is An Eponymous Mini-Arc
Episodes 68 & 69
For the most part, the One Piece anime does not adapt the cover stories that appear in its manga. These narratives are usually brief, so they're not particularly well-suited for the anime medium. That being said, Koby and Helmeppo's entry into the Marines proved to be too important to the show's narrative, and as a result, it was included as a short mini-arc.
The Diary of Koby-Meppo Arc showcases the pair's early struggles in the Marines, reminding viewers that these two characters are not to be forgotten. In addition, this One Piece arc introduces Monkey D. Garp — Monkey D. Luffy's grandfather and arguably the most famous Marine of all time.
Diary of Koby-Meppo Episode #
|
Title
|
68.
|
Try Hard, Coby! Coby and Helmeppo's Struggles in the Marines!
|
69.
|
Coby and Helmeppo's Resolve! Vice-Admiral Garp's Parental Affection!
|
23
The Little Garden Arc Is A Delightful Detour For The Heroes
Episodes 70-77
Of all the islands that decorate One Piece's Grand Line, none are more storied than Elbaf. The home of the giants is still yet to appear in the series, but thanks to adventures like the Little Garden Arc, the Straw Hat Pirates have gotten a taste of the island's warrior-like culture.
Dorry and Broggy are two giants that have been embroiled in a duel on the island of Little Garden for 100 years. Because of their determination and honorable nature, the pair immediately bond with the Straw Hat Pirates. However, their friendly interactions are cut short when Baroque Works interrupts their duel, earning the ire of Dorry, Broggy, and the entire Straw Hat crew.
Little Garden Episode #
|
Title
|
70.
|
An Ancient Island! The Shadow Hiding in Little Garden!
|
71.
|
Huge Duel! The Giants Dorry and Broggy!
|
72.
|
Luffy Gets Angry! A Dirty Trick Violates the Sacred Duel!
|
73.
|
Broggy's Bitter Tears of Victory! The Conclusion of Elbaf!
|
74.
|
The Devilish Candle! Tears of Regret and Tears of Anger!
|
75.
|
A Hex on Luffy! Colors Trap!
|
76.
|
Time to Fight Back! Usopp's Quick Thinking and Fire Star!
|
77.
|
Farewell Giant Island! Head for Alabasta!
|
22
The Drum Island Arc Ends With Chopper As The Ship's Doctor
Episodes 78-91
Every One Piece arc that results in a new member of the Straw Hat Pirates is extremely noteworthy, and the Drum Island arc is no exception. With Nami battling a life-threatening illness, Luffy and his crew arrive on Drum Island desperate for a doctor to join their ranks.
Luckily for the Straw Hats, they encounter Tony Tony Chopper — a reindeer-turned-doctor determined to cure all the world's diseases. His touching backstory, the arc's despicable antagonist, Wapol, and the struggle of Drum Island's inhabitants all serve as the perfect backdrop for an addition to the Straw Hat Pirates.
Drum Island Episode #
|
Title
|
78.
|
Nami's Sick? Beyond the Snow Falling on the Sea!
|
79.
|
A Raid! The Tin Tyrant and Tin Plate Wapol!
|
80.
|
An Island without Doctors? Adventure in a Nameless Land!
|
81.
|
Are You Happy? The Doctor Called Witch!
|
82.
|
Dalton's Resolve! Wapol's Corps Lands on the Island!
|
83.
|
The Island Where Snow Lives! Climb the Drum Rockies!
|
84.
|
Blue-nosed Reindeer! Chopper's Secret!
|
85.
|
An Outcast's Dream! Hiriluk the Quack!
|
86.
|
Hiriluk's Cherry Blossoms and the Will that Carries On!
|
87.
|
Fight Wapol's Crew! The Power of the Munch Munch Fruit!
|
88.
|
Zoan-type Devil Fruit! Chopper's Seven-form Devil Fruit!
|
89.
|
When the Kingdom's Rule Ends! The Flag of Faith Flies Forever!
|
90.
|
Hiriluk's Cherry Blossoms! Miracle in the Drum Rockies!
|
91.
|
Goodbye Drum Island! I'm Going out to Sea!
|
21
The Alabasta Arc Showcases Luffy's Potential On A Global Scale
Episodes 92-130
With anticipation building since the Whiskey Peak arc, fans were eager to witness the conclusion of the Alabasta Saga. For the sake of their friend Princess Vivi Nefertari, the Straw Hats put everything on the line to save her country from the Warlord Crocodile.
As the first person to ever beat Luffy in a fight, Crocodile quickly became one of the series' top villains and was responsible for making him push past his limits to become stronger. The conclusion of this One Piece saga also serves as the starting line where Luffy's infamous reputation begins to evolve as the World Government finally takes notice of him and his crew.
Alabasta Episode #
|
Title
|
92.
|
Alabasta's Hero and a Ballerina on the Ship!
|
93.
|
Off to the Desert Kingdom! The Rain-Summoning Powder and the Rebel Army!
|
94.
|
The Heroes Reunion! His Name is Fire Fist Ace!
|
95.
|
Ace and Luffy! Hot Emotions and Brotherly Bonds!
|
96.
|
Erumalu, the City of Green and the Kung Fu Dugongs!
|
97.
|
Adventure in the Country of Sand! The Monsters that Live in the Scorching Land!
|
98.
|
Enter the Desert Pirates! The Men Who Live Freely!
|
99.
|
False Fortitude! Camu, Rebel Soldier at Heart!
|
100.
|
Rebel Warrior Koza! The Dream Vowed to Vivi!
|
101.
|
Showdown in a Heat Haze! Ace vs. the Gallant Scorpion!
|
102.
|
Ruins and Lost Ways! Vivi, Her Friends, and the Country's Form!
|
103.
|
Spiders Café at 8 o'Clock! The Enemy Leaders Gather!
|
104.
|
Luffy vs. Vivi! The Tearful Vow to Put Friends on the Line!
|
105.
|
The Battlefront of Alabasta! Rainbase, the City of Dreams!
|
106.
|
The Trap of Certain Defeat! Storming Raindinners!
|
107.
|
Operation Utopia Commences! The Swell of Rebellion Stirs!
|
108.
|
The Terrifying Banana Gators and Mr. Prince!
|
109.
|
The Key to a Great Comeback Escape! The Wax-Wax Ball!
|
110.
|
Merciless Mortal Combat! Luffy vs. Crocodile!
|
111.
|
Dash For a Miracle! Alabasta Animal Land!
|
112.
|
Rebel Army vs. Royal Army! Showdown at Alubarna!
|
113.
|
Alubarna Grieves! The Fierce Captain Karoo!
|
114.
|
Sworn on a Friend's Dream! The Battle of Molehill, Block 4!
|
115.
|
Big Opening Day Today! The Copy-Copy Montage!
|
116.
|
Transformed into Nami! Bon Clay's Rapid-Fire Ballet Kenpo!
|
117.
|
Nami's Cyclone Advisory! Clima Takt Burst!
|
118.
|
Secret Passed Down in the Royal Family! The Ancient Weapon Pluton!
|
119.
|
Secret of Powerful Swordplay! Ability to Cut Steel and the Rhythm Things Have!
|
120.
|
The Battle is Over! Koza Raises the White Flag!
|
121.
|
Where Vivi's Voice Gets Heard! The Hero Descends!
|
122.
|
Sand Croc and Water Luffy! The Second Round of the Duel!
|
123.
|
That Looks Croc-ish! Luffy, Run to the Royal Tomb!
|
124.
|
The Nightmare Draws Near! This is the Sand-Sand Clan's Secret Base!
|
125.
|
Magnificent Wings! My Name is Pell, Guardian Deity of the Country!
|
126.
|
I Will Surpass You! Rain Falls in Alabasta!
|
127.
|
A Farewell to Arms! Pirates and Different Ideas of Justice!
|
128.
|
The Pirates' Banquet and Operation Escape from Alabasta!
|
129.
|
It All Started On That Day! Vivi Tells the Story of Her Adventure!
|
130.
|
Scent of Danger! The Seventh Member is Nico Robin!
|
20
The Jaya Arc Effectively Functions As A Set-Up For The Next Arc
Episodes 144-152
Related
One of the most beloved manga creators of all time, One Piece's Eiichiro Oda, comes under intense scrutiny after posting an AI-created video.
Although the Jaya arc effectively functions as a setup for the events of Skypiea, its worth as a narrative should not be discounted. An entire slew of characters — Bartholomew Kuma, Bellamy, Blackbeard, Doflamingo, Mont Blanc Cricket, Sengoku, the Five Elders, and Whitebeard, to name a few — were introduced during this arc.
This makes it one of the most jam-packed sequences in any One Piece saga. Blackbeard and Monkey D. Luffy's conversations about chasing their dreams would be enough for this arc to warrant mention. However, the additional scenes involving the Straw Hat Pirates' conflict with Bellamy and the struggle of Mont Blanc Cricket solidify it as one of the best in the series.
Jaya Episode #
|
Title
|
144.
|
Caught Log! The King of Salvagers, Masira!
|
145.
|
Monsters Appear! Don't Mess with the Whitebeard Pirates!
|
146.
|
Quit Dreaming! Mock Town, the Town of Ridicule!
|
147.
|
Distinguished Pirates! A Man Who Talks of Dreams and the King of Undersea Search!
|
148.
|
Legendary Family! Nolan, the Liar!
|
149.
|
Steer for the Clouds! Capture the South Bird!
|
150.
|
Dreams Don't Come True?! Bellamy Versus the Saruyama Alliance!
|
151.
|
100 Million Man! World's Greatest Power and Pirate Blackbeard!
|
152.
|
Take to the Sky! Ride the Knockup Stream!
|
19
The Skypiea Arc Is One Of The More Underrated One Piece Arcs
Episodes 153-195
The Skypiea arc is one of the more underrated arcs in the series. It has all the elements necessary for a great adventure, as well as the most unique environment in the One Piece timeline. The Skypiea arc also reveals some vital information regarding the mysterious Poneglyphs. Towards the end of the arc, Robin finds one that not only reveals the identity of the Ancient Weapon Poseidon but also features a message from Gol D. Roger.
In it, the former Pirate King hints that the truth of the Void Century lies at Raftel, the final island of the Grand Line and the rumored location of the legendary treasure One Piece. Throw in a heart-wrenching narrative involving the Shandorians and Mont Blanc Noland, and this One Piece arc ranks among the best in the show.
Skypiea Episode #
|
Title
|
153.
|
Sail the White Sea! The Sky Knight and the Gate in the Clouds!
|
154.
|
Godland, Skypiea! Angels on a Beach of Clouds!
|
155.
|
The Forbidden Sacred Ground! The Island Where God Lives and Heaven's Judgement!
|
156.
|
Already Criminals?! Skypiea's Upholder of the Law!
|
157.
|
Is Escape Possible?! God's Challenge Is Set in Motion
|
158.
|
A Trap on Lovely Street! The Almighty Enel
|
159.
|
Onward Crow! To the Sacrificial Altar!
|
160.
|
10% Survival Rate! Satori, the Mantra Master!
|
161.
|
The Ordeals of Spheres! Desperate Struggle in the Lost Forest!
|
162.
|
Chopper in Danger! Former God vs. Priest Shura!
|
163.
|
Profound Mystery! Ordeal of String and Ordeal of Love?!
|
164.
|
Light the Fire of Shandora! Wyper the Warrior!
|
165.
|
Jaya, City of Gold in the Sky! Head for God's Shrine!
|
166.
|
Festival on the Night Before Gold-Hunting! Feelings for Vearth!
|
167.
|
Enter God Enel! Farewell to the Survivors!
|
168.
|
A Giant Snake Bears Its Fangs! The Survival Game Begins!
|
169.
|
The Deadly Reject! War Demon Wyper's Resolve!
|
170.
|
Fierce Mid-Air Battle! Pirate Zoro vs. Warrior Braham!
|
171.
|
The Roaring Burn Bazooka!! Pirate Luffy vs. War Demon Wyper!
|
172.
|
The Ordeal of Swamp! Chopper vs. Priest Gedatsu!
|
173.
|
Unbeatable Powers! Enel's True Form Is Revealed!
|
174.
|
A Mystical City! The Grand Ruins of Shandora!
|
175.
|
0% Survival Rate! Chopper vs. Ohm, the Sword Wielding Priest!
|
176.
|
Climb Giant Jack! Deadly Combat in the Upper Ruins!
|
177.
|
The Ordeal of Iron! White Barbed Death Match!
|
178.
|
Burning Slash! Zoro vs. Ohm!
|
179.
|
Collapsing Upper Ruins! The Quintet for the Finale!
|
180.
|
Showdown in the Ancient Ruins! Sky God Enel's Goal!
|
181.
|
Ambition towards the Endless Vearth! The Ark Maxim!
|
182.
|
They Finally Clash! Pirate Luffy vs. God Enel!
|
183.
|
Maxim Surfaces! Deathpiea Is Activated!
|
184.
|
Luffy Falls! Enel's Judgement and Nami's Wish!
|
185.
|
The Two Awaken! On the Front Lines of the Burning Love Rescue!
|
186.
|
Capriccio for Despair! The Impending Doom of Sky Island!
|
187.
|
Lead by a Bell's Sound! Tale of the Great Warrior and the Explorer!
|
188.
|
Free from the Spell! The Great Warrior Sheds Tears!
|
189.
|
Eternal Friends! The Vowed Bell Echoes across the Mighty Seas!
|
190.
|
Angel Island, Obliterated! The Horror of the Raigo's Advent!!
|
191.
|
Knock over Giant Jack! Last Hope for Escape!
|
192.
|
Miracle on Skypiea! The Love Song Heard in the Clouds!
|
193.
|
The Battle Ends! Proud Fantasia Echoes Far!
|
194.
|
I Made It Here! The Yarn the Poneglyphs Spin!
|
195.
|
Off to the Blue Sea!! A Heartfelt Finale!
|
18
The Long Ring Long Land Arc Is Great For Laughs But Little Else
Episodes 207-219
Smack in between two of One Piece's most beloved sagas lies the Long Ring Long Land Arc. Although it would be easy to write this arc off as filler, that's unfortunately not the case. The Long Ring Long Land Arc is remembered for many reasons, several of which highlight the sequence's shortcomings.
When the Straw Hat Pirates return from Skypiea, they almost immediately arrive at Long Ring Long Land and encounter the Foxy Pirates. What follows is a competition between the two crews that ultimately results in little change to either side, accomplishing little other than providing fans with a few cheap laughs before the Water 7 Saga.
Long Ring Long Land Episode #
|
Title
|
207.
|
Great Adventure in Long Ring Long Land!
|
208.
|
A Davy Back with the Foxy Pirates!
|
209.
|
Round 1! One Lap of the Donut Race!
|
210.
|
Silver Fox Foxy! The Merciless Interference!
|
211.
|
Round 2! Shoot It into the Groggy Ring!
|
212.
|
A Barrage of Red Cards in Groggy Ring!
|
213.
|
Round 3! The Round-and-Round Roller Race!
|
214.
|
A Seriously Heated Race! Into the Final Round!
|
215.
|
Screaming-Hot Bombardment! Pirate Dodgeball!
|
216.
|
Showdown on the Cliff! Red Light, Green Light!
|
217.
|
The Captains Square Off! The Final Combat Round
|
218.
|
Full-Blast Slow-Slow Onslaught Vs. Invulnerable Luffy!
|
219.
|
Epic, Heated Combat! The Fateful Final Conclusion!
|
17
The Water 7 Arc Has The Straw Hat Pirates Undergo Some Serious Changes
Episodes 229-263
Many fans refer to the Water 7 and Enies Lobby arcs as the same, but technically, they are separate halves of a greater saga. Water 7 handles everything up to the Straw Hats' departure for Enies Lobby, and although it isn't quite as impactful as the story that follows, it still makes for one of One Piece's best arcs.
While in Water 7, the Straw Hat Pirates undergo some serious changes. Robin and Usopp each leave the crew for separate reasons, forcing Luffy to finally demonstrate his capacity to handle conflict among his crew. In addition to this, Franky is introduced to the series, resulting in one of the most Straw Hat-heavy sequences in their entire journey.
Water 7 Episode #
|
Title
|
229.
|
The Dashing Sea Train and the City of Water: Water 7!
|
230.
|
Adventure in the City on the Water! Head to the Mammoth Shipbuilding Plant!
|
231.
|
The Franky Family and Iceberg!
|
232.
|
Galley-La Company! A Grand Sight: Dock #1!
|
233.
|
Pirate Abduction Incident! A Pirate Ship That Can Only Await Her End!
|
234.
|
Rescuing Her Friend! Raid on the Franky House!
|
235.
|
Big Fight Under the Moon! The Pirate Flag Flutters with Sorrow!
|
236.
|
Luffy vs. Usopp! Collision of Two Men's Pride!
|
237.
|
Severe Shock Hits the City of Water! Iceberg Targeted!
|
238.
|
Gum-Gum Human vs. Fire-Breathing Cyborg!
|
239.
|
The Straw Hat Pirates Are the Culprits? The Protectors of the City of Water!
|
240.
|
Eternal Farewell? Nico Robin: The Woman Who Draws Darkness!
|
241.
|
Capture Robin! The Determination of the Straw Hats!
|
242.
|
Cannon Fire Is the Signal! CP9 Goes into Action!
|
243.
|
CP9 Takes Off Their Masks! Their Shocking True Faces!
|
244.
|
Secret Bond! Iceberg and Franky!
|
245.
|
Come Back, Robin! Showdown with CP9!
|
246.
|
The Straw Hat Pirates Annihilated? The Menace of the Leopard Model!
|
247.
|
The Man Who Is Loved Even by His Ship! Usopp's Tears!
|
248.
|
Franky's Past! The Day the Sea Train First Ran!
|
249.
|
Spandam's Scheme! The Day the Sea Train Shook!
|
250.
|
The End of the Legendary Man! The Day the Sea Train Cried!
|
251.
|
The Truth Behind Her Betrayal! Robin's Sorrowful Decision!
|
252.
|
The Steam Whistle Forces Friends Apart! The Sea Train Starts to Run!
|
253.
|
Sanji Barges In! Sea Train Battle in the Storm!
|
254.
|
Nami's Soul Cries Out! Straw Hat Luffy Makes a Comeback!
|
255.
|
Another Sea Train? Rocketman Charges Forth!
|
256.
|
Rescue Our Friends! A Bond Among Foes Sworn with Fists!
|
257.
|
Smash the Wave! Luffy and Zoro Use the Strongest Combo!
|
258.
|
A Mysterious Man Appears!? His Name Is Sniperking!
|
259.
|
Showdown Between Cooks! Sanji vs. Ramen Kenpo
|
260.
|
Rooftop Duel! Franky vs. Nero
|
261.
|
Clash! Demon-Slasher Zoro vs. Ship-Slasher T-Bone!
|
262.
|
Scramble over Robin! A Cunning Plan by Sniperking!
|
263.
|
The Judicial Island! Full View of Enies Lobby!
|
16
The Enies Lobby Arc Features Several Memorable And Profound Moments
Episodes 264-290, 293-302, 304-325
In regard to One Piece's story arcs, many fans agree that the Enies Lobby arc is the best in the entire series. It features several memorable moments such as Nico Robin's tragic backstory, Franky destroying the blueprints for the Ancient Weapon Pluton. It even introduces Luffy's Gear Second and Third transformations.
In a major turning point in the series, Luffy and the Straw Hats demonstrate their resolve to save and protect Robin by burning down the World Government's flag. In doing so, they not only restore Robin's will to live, they declare war on the entire world. From regular pirates to international criminals, it does not get any more epic than Enies Lobby. Throw in quality storylines that relate to each of the Straw Hat Pirates, and the sequence slots among the best in anime history.
Enies Lobby Episode #
|
Title
|
264.
|
Landing Operations Start! Charge in, Straw Hats!
|
265.
|
Luffy Cuts Through! Big Showdown on the Judicial Island!
|
266.
|
Battle Against Giants! Open the Second Gate!
|
267.
|
Find a Way Out! Rocketman Takes Flight!
|
268.
|
Catch Up with Luffy! The Straw Hats’ All-Out Battle
|
269.
|
Robin Betrayed! The Motive of the World Government!
|
270.
|
Give Robin Back! Luffy vs. Blueno!
|
271.
|
Don’t Stop! Hoist the Counterattack Signal!
|
272.
|
Almost to Luffy! Gather at the Courthouse Plaza!
|
273.
|
Everything is to Protect My Friends! Second Gear Activated!
|
274.
|
Give us Your Answer, Robin! The Straw Hats' Outcry!
|
275.
|
Robin's Past! The Girl Who Was Called a Devil!
|
276.
|
Fated Mother and Daughter! The Mother's Name is Olvia!
|
277.
|
The Tragedy of Ohara! The Terror of the Buster Call!
|
278.
|
Say You Want to Live! We Are Your Friends!!
|
284.
|
I'm Not Gonna Hand Over the Blueprints! Franky's Decision!
|
285.
|
Obtain the 5 Keys! The Straw Hat Pirates vs. CP9!
|
286.
|
Devil Fruit Powers! Kaku and Jabra Transform!
|
287.
|
I Won't Kick Even If It Costs Me My Life! Sanji's Chivalry!
|
288.
|
Fukurou's Miscalculation! My Cola is the Water of Life!
|
289.
|
Zoro Busts Out a New Technique! The Sword's Name Is Sniperking?
|
290.
|
Uncontrollable! Chopper's Forbidden Rumble!
|
293.
|
Bubble Master Kalifa! The Soap Trap Closes in on Nami!
|
294.
|
Resounding Bad News! Buster Call Invoked!
|
295.
|
Five Namis? Nami Strikes Back With Mirages!
|
296.
|
Nami's Decision! Fire at the Out-Of-Control Chopper!
|
297.
|
Hunter Sanji Makes An Entrance? Elegy for a Lying Wolf!
|
298.
|
Fiery Kicks! Sanji's Full Course of Foot Techniques!
|
299.
|
Fierce Sword Attacks! Zoro vs. Kaku, Powerful Sword Fighting Showdown!
|
300.
|
Demon God Zoro! An Incarnation of Asura Born From Fighting Spirit!
|
301.
|
Spandam Frightened! The Hero on the Tower of Law!
|
302.
|
Robin Freed! Luffy vs. Lucci, Showdown Between Leaders!
|
304.
|
I Can't Protect Anyone Unless I Win! Third Gear Activated!
|
305.
|
Shivering Past! Dark Justice and Rob Lucci!
|
306.
|
A Mysterious Mermaid Appears? As Consciousness Fades Away...
|
307.
|
Cannon Fire Sinks the Island! Franky's Lamentation!
|
308.
|
Wait for Luffy! Mortal Combat on the Bridge of Hesitation!
|
309.
|
Fists Full of Emotion! Luffy Unleashes Gatling with All His Might!
|
310.
|
From the Sea, a Friend Arrives! The Straw Hats Share the Strongest Bond!
|
311.
|
Everyone Makes a Great Escape! The Road to Victory is for the Pirates!
|
312.
|
Thank You, Merry! Snow Falls over the Parting Sea!
|
313.
|
Peace Interrupted! A Navy Vice Admiral with a Fist of Love!
|
314.
|
The Strongest Family? Luffy's Father Revealed!
|
315.
|
Its Name Is The New World! The Fate of the Grand Line!
|
316.
|
Shanks Makes a Move! The Linchpin to the Reckless Era!
|
317.
|
The Girl in Search of Her Yagara! Great Search in the City of Water!
|
318.
|
Mothers are Strong! Zoro's Hectic Household Chores!
|
319.
|
Sanji's Shock! Mysterious Old Man and His Super Yummy Cooking!
|
320.
|
Everyone Finally Has A Bounty! A Pirate Group Worth Over Six Hundred Million!
|
321.
|
The King of Animals that Overlooks the Sea! The Dream Ship Magnificently Completed!
|
322.
|
Goodbye My Dear Underlings! Franky Departs!
|
323.
|
Departing the City of Water! Usopp Mans Up and Brings Closure to the Duel!
|
324.
|
Wanted Posters Make It Around the World! Celebrations in Their Hometowns as the Ship Moves Forward!
|
325.
|
The Most Heinous Power! Blackbeard's Darkness Attacks Ace!
|
15
The Thriller Bark Arc Is Popular For Introducing Brook
Episodes 337-381
Thriller Bark is yet another of One Piece's underrated story arcs. Initially, it starts with a hilarious atmosphere full of classic One Piece gags. The situation quickly escalates as the Straw Hats unite to defeat the Warlord Gecko Moria and his giant zombie Oars.
This arc is also popular for introducing the Straw Hats musician Brook and showcasing Roronoa Zoro's standoff against Bartholomew Kuma. In one of his greatest moments in the series, he prevents Kuma from killing Luffy by agreeing to take on all the pain he suffered in his fight with Moria — an act that nearly destroys him in the process.
Thriller Bark Episode #
|
Title
|
337.
|
The Mysterious Skeleton Floating Through the Fog! Venture into the Devil's Sea!
|
338.
|
The Joy of Seeing People! The Gentleman Skeleton's True Identity!
|
339.
|
One Unnatural Phenomenon After the Next! Disembarking on Thriller Bark!
|
340.
|
The Man Called a Genius! Hogback Makes His Appearance!
|
341.
|
Nami's in a Major Pinch! The Zombie Mansion and the Invisible Man!
|
342.
|
The Zombie's Secret! Hogback's Nightmarish Laboratory!
|
343.
|
His Name Is Moria! The Great Shadow-Seizing Pirate's Trap!
|
344.
|
Feast of the Zombie Song! The Night Raid's Bell Is the Sound of Darkness!
|
345.
|
A Bunch of Animals? Perona's Wonder Garden!
|
346.
|
The Vanishing Straw Hat Crew! A Mysterious Swordsman Appears!
|
347.
|
Chivalry Remains! The Traitorous Zombie Protects Nami!
|
348.
|
Appearing from the Sky! That Man is the Humming Swordsman!
|
349.
|
Luffy's Emergency Situation! The Ultimate Shadow's Destination!
|
350.
|
The Warrior Known as the "Devil"!! The Moment of Oars' Revival!
|
351.
|
Awakening after 500 Years!! Oars Opens His Eyes!!
|
352.
|
A Belief Worth Begging to Live for!! Brooks Defends His Afro
|
353.
|
A Man's Promise Never Dies!! To the Friend Waiting under the Distant Sky
|
354.
|
I Swear to Go See Him! Brook and the Cape of Promise
|
355.
|
Food, Nami and Shadows!! Luffy's Enraged Counterattack
|
356.
|
Usopp's the Strongest? Leave Anything Negative to Him
|
357.
|
The General Zombies Are Down in a Flash!! Oars Feels Like An Adventure!!
|
358.
|
Blazing Knight Sanji!! Kick Down the Fake Wedding
|
359.
|
A Clear-Clear History? Sanji's Stolen Dream
|
360.
|
Save Me, Hero!! My Name Is the Immortal Princess
|
361.
|
Perona Is Terrified!! Usopp and Untruthful Share the Same "U"
|
362.
|
Slashes Dancing on the Rooftop!! Zoro vs. Ryuma's Showdown
|
363.
|
Chopper Is Furious!! Hogback's Evil Medical Practices
|
364.
|
Oars Roars! Come Out, Straw Hat Crew
|
365.
|
Luffy Is the Enemy! The Ultimate Zombie vs. The Straw Hat Crew
|
366.
|
You're Going Down, Absalom!! Nami's Lightning Attack of Friendship
|
367.
|
Knock Him Down!! Special Attack: Straw Hat Docking?
|
368.
|
The Silent Assault!! The Mysterious Visitor, Tyrant Kuma
|
369.
|
Oars + Moria! The Most Heinous Combination of Brains and Brawn
|
370.
|
The Secret Plan to Turn the Tables! Nightmare Luffy Makes His Appearance
|
371.
|
The Straw Hat Crew Gets Wiped Out! The Shadow-Shadow's Powers in Full Swing
|
372.
|
The Incredible Battle Starts! Luffy vs. Luffy
|
373.
|
The End of the Battle Is Nigh! Pound in the Finishing Move
|
374.
|
Our Bodies Vanish! The Morning Sun Shines on the Nightmarish Island
|
375.
|
Not out of Danger Yet! Orders to Annihilate the Straw Hat Crew
|
376.
|
It Repels Everything! Kuma's Paw-Paw Power
|
377.
|
The Pain of My Crewmates Is My Pain! Zoro's Desperate Fight
|
378.
|
The Promise from a Distant Day! The Pirates' Song and a Small Whale
|
379.
|
Brook's Past! A Sad Farewell with His Cheerful Comrade
|
380.
|
Bink's Booze! The Song that Connects the Past with the Present
|
381.
|
A New Crewmate! The Musician, Humming Brook!
|
14
The Sabaody Archipelago Arc Explores Darker Themes Than Usual
Episodes 385-405
Related
One Piece makes its first-ever appearance on the iconic American game show Jeopardy! -- a testament to the global impact and growth of the franchise.
The Sabaody Archipelago is an emotionally gripping sequence that explores the darker themes of the series such as racism and slavery. It also introduces the Celestial Dragons, descendants of the founders of the World Government who wield absolute political power. After a Celestial Dragon shoots one of Luffy's friends and tries to enslave another, the Straw Hat pirate retaliates by punching him in the face.
While this was undoubtedly a satisfying moment for many fans, it also resulted in the Straw Hats being targeted by Marine Admiral Kizaru. Not only did they experience the feeling of bitter defeat, but they also witnessed just how overwhelming the government's military power can be.
Sabaody Archipelago Episode #
|
Title
|
385.
|
Arriving at Halfway through the Grand Line! The Red Line
|
386.
|
Hatred of the Straw Hat Crew — Enter Iron Mask Duval
|
387.
|
The Fated Reunion! Save the Imprisoned Fish-man
|
388.
|
Tragedy! The Truth of the Unmasked Duval
|
389.
|
Explosion! The Sunny's Super Secret Weapon: Gaon Cannon
|
390.
|
Landing to Get to Fish-man Island — the Sabaody Archipelago
|
391.
|
Tyranny! The Rulers of Sabaody, the Celestial Dragons
|
392.
|
New Rivals Gather! The 11 Supernovas
|
393.
|
The Target Is Camie! The Looming Clutches of a Professional Kidnapper
|
394.
|
Rescue Camie! The Archipelago's Lingering Dark History
|
395.
|
Time Limit — The Human Action Begins
|
396.
|
The Fist Explodes! Destroy the Auction
|
397.
|
Major Panic! Desperate Struggle at the Auction House
|
398.
|
Admiral Kizaru Takes Action! Sabaody Archipelago Thrown into Chaos
|
399.
|
Break through the Siege! The Navy vs. the Three Captains
|
400.
|
Roger and Rayleigh — the King of the Pirates and His Right Hand Man
|
401.
|
No Escape!? Admiral Kizaru's Light Speed Kick!!
|
402.
|
Overwhelming! The Navy's Fighting Weapons, the Pacifistas
|
403.
|
An Even Stronger Enemy Appears! The Battle Axe-Carrying Sentomaru
|
404.
|
Admiral Kizaru's Fierce Assault! The Straw Hats Face Certain Death
|
405.
|
Eliminated Friends — The Final Day of the Straw Hat Pirates
|
13
The Amazon Lily Arc Revolves Around The Infiltration Of Impel Down
Episodes 408-417
When the Straw Hat Pirates are forcibly separated by Bartholomew Kuma, each member of the crew is devastated by their loss. However, in the case of Monkey D. Luffy, he doesn't have time to bemoan his circumstances, and during the Amazon Lily Arc, he develops a plan of action to stop the impending execution of his brother, Portgas D. Ace.
With the help of Boa Hancock and her followers, Luffy plans an infiltration of One Piece's most secure location, Impel Down. While the Amazon Lily Arc isn't very long, it's instrumental in setting up one of the most memorable One Piece sagas, Marineford.
Amazon Lily Episode #
|
Title
|
408.
|
Landing! The All-Female Island, Amazon Lily
|
409.
|
Hurry Back to Your Friends! The Maiden Island Adventure
|
410.
|
Everyone Falls in Love! Pirate Empress Hancock
|
411.
|
The Secret Hidden on the Backs – Luffy and the Snake Princess Meet
|
412.
|
Heartless Judgment! Margaret is Turned to Stone!!
|
413.
|
A Difficult Fight for Luffy! The Snake Sisters' Haki Power!!
|
414.
|
All-Out Special Power Battle!! Gum-Gum vs. Snake-Snake
|
415.
|
Hancock's Confession – The Sisters' Abhorrent Past
|
416.
|
Saving Ace! The Next Stop: the Great Prison!
|
417.
|
Love is a Hurricane! Hancock Madly in Love!
|