Summary
One Pieceis one of the most successful and popular manga and anime series ever.Exceptional character development, world-building, epic moments, and seamless transitions from extremely dramatic to more lighthearted comedic moments are just a few of the things that make this anime unique.
One Piece is also one of the longest-running manga and anime shows ever created. With several episodes and arcs spanning over 20 years of production, it has garnered a loyal and fierce fan base. While there have been several great arcs throughout this long span of time, a few jump out as the best so far.
8The Jaya Arc
Episodes 144–152
The Jaya Arc is the 12th story arc in the One Piece manga and anime and the first story arc of the Sky Island saga. It follows the straw hats to the island of Jaya, where they meet and work with a character called Mont Blanc Cricket to determine if there is an island in the sky.
This arc doesn’t get much praise and is often just lumped in as a part of the Skypiea arc by most fans. However, the arc does have some significant moments that shape the course of the story from that point. The differences between Bellamy and Blackbeard as pirates and how these characters greatly influenced Luffy added an extra layer to one of the most significant Shonen main characters ever.
7Arlong Park
Episodes 31–45
The Arlong Park arc, also known as the Cocoyasi Village arc or the Conomi Islands arc, is the fifth story arc in the series and the final arc of the East Blue saga. Interestingly, this is also the last bit of action in the first season of the live-action television show remake. This arc is a pivotal story toward strengthening the bonds between the straw hats and establishing this group of pirates' familial and kindred nature.
It establishes the first serious and dramatic sets of moments in the series with a powerful villain that ties into Nami’s past, giving viewers and readers a sense that the straw hats are in deeper water this time. The arc allows each character to come into their own as fan favorites for the first time, a theme that will be prevalent throughout the series going forward.
6Arabasta Arc
Episodes 92–130
The Arabasta Arc is the 11th story arc in the show. It follows the straw hats who have finally made it to the desert kingdom of Arabasta. There, they must quickly make their way to Alubarna and prevent a huge war from breaking out between opposing parties.
The Arabasta arc deserves a lot of praise for the few firsts it introduces into the series. First, this arc is the first time we see a separate organization from the pirates and marines, giving the show a more complex world of organizations. It also gives us the first glimpse at a means of fighting against Logia-type devil fruits. When the crew came up against Crocodile, Luffy had to get very creative to come away with the victory.
5Whole Cake Island Arc
Episodes 783–877
Also known as the Totto Land arc, the Whole Cake Island Arc is the 29th story arc in the series and the second story arc of the Whole Cake Island Saga. It spans almost 100 episodes, making it one of the longest arcs in any anime, which already makes it stand out.
Ultimately, the length of the whole arc gives it enough room to explore several of the greatest One Piece tropes and establish a few new ones. The arc touches on everything from comedy to drama, adventure, and action.
4Skypiea Arc
Episodes 153–195
The Skypiea Arc, also known as the Sky Island arc, is the 13th story arc of the anime and the second story arc of the Sky Island saga. However, it doesn’t get enough credit because it is considered largely afiller set of episodesdetached from the main story.
However, despite not following the main narrative of the One Piece theme, it still has a great deal of appeal for telling a different kind of One Piece story and showcasing a new environment in the world. Another major draw for this arc is the introduction of Enel, the lightning god, as the main protagonist.
3The Romance Dawn Arc
Episodes 1–3
The Romance Dawn Arc is the very first One Piece arc ever, and it sets up the backdrop for what viewers are getting themselves into. It introduces the titular character, gives us glimpses of his backstory, and introduces us to his first set of companions and the first instance of adversity.
This setup immediately told most viewers they would love Luffy and his adventures and introduces so many of the core values of the entire series in four short but memorable episodes.
2Impel Down
Episodes 422–425
The Impel Down arc is one of the more dramatic and action-packed arcs, featuring many deep moments and combat scenes. In this arc, Luffy attempts to break into the famed Impel Down prison to free his brother, the fan-favorite character Ace.
The Arc also brings back several familiar faces, including Buggy the Clown. Another major thing this arc does is introduce major characters like Emporio Ivankov and Inazuma. Ultimately, this arc is action-packed from start to finish.
1Wano Country
Episodes 981 – 1011
The Wano Country arc is the 31st story arc of the series and the eighth story arc of the series' second half. It encapsulates the captivating elements that define One Piece, propelling both Monkey D. Luffy and the series to new heights.
Numerous exhilarating battles unfold within this arc, introducing entertaining characters such as Kin’emon and Yamato. Notably, the climax involves Luffy’s Devil Fruit Awakening, unveiling Gear 5, and culminating in the triumph over Kaido, the world’s strongest creature.
