One Piece has etched its name in the annals of manga and anime history as more than a successful voyage. Its triumph is attributed to many factors contributing to its appeal, including the captivating characters and a great storyline. But among the many characters, there are the very best. So, which are the top ten best One Piece arcs?
While it's possible to experience the entirety of One Piece by following the chronological order of its arcs, certain arcs have surpassed expectations and emerged as the pinnacle of the anime series. Discover where your favourite arc ranks if you arrange One Piece arcs in order.
Best One Piece arcs ranked with no spoilers
While every arc is significant in making One Piece, the legendary Manga and anime series, one of the best among viewers, certain standout arcs have surpassed all expectations. So, what is considered the best arc in One Piece? Here are the best arcs according to Screen Rant:
1. Enies Lobby Arc
The Enies Lobby Arc, from Chapters 375 to 430, is regarded as the greatest arc in anime and the best in One Piece. It is the top-ranking arc of this list, epitomising what One Piece can achieve at its best.
The arc revolves around the Straw Hat Pirates and their companions as they launch a daring assault on Enies Lobby, one of the World Government's seats of power. It's during a desperate bid to rescue their crewmates, Nico Robin and Franky.
The Enies Lobby Arc represents a major turning point for many of the series' main characters, featuring the heartbreaking backstory of Robin. Moreover, this arc delivers a devastating emotional blow with the destruction of the Straw Hat's ship, the Going Merry.
2. Marineford Arc
The Marineford Arc, encompassing Chapters 550 to 580, easily ranks in the top three positions of the best arcs in One Piece. It holds an important place in the series' narrative, representing the pinnacle of the storyline.
The arc revolves around Luffy's daring mission to rescue his brother Ace amidst a fierce war. Marineford showcases the immense power and danger prominent figures in the series face. It also delivers two shocking deaths: the Yonko Whitebeard and Luffy's beloved brother, Ace.
These tragic events mark it as the most dramatic arc in One Piece that changes the course of the series. The Marineford Arc is an epic saga that captures the essence of drama, action, and emotional intensity in One Piece.
3. Punk Hazard Arc
Punk Hazard( Chapters 654 - 699) may seem like an unexpected choice in this ranking, but this arc holds an important place in One Piece's larger Dressrosa saga. Punk sets the stage for important events that unfold later in the series, earning it a noteworthy position.
When Luffy and his crew respond to a distress call, they face new threats they must overcome. The arc introduces dangerous elements that'll have repercussions as the series unfolds. It also sheds light on Doctor Vegapunk's research and expands the viewer's understanding of the power systems in One Piece.
4. Wano Country Arc
Considered by many fans as the greatest arc in anime due to its intense moments in One Piece, the Wano Country arc is captivating viewers in the anime. Its conclusion in the manga, appearing in chapters 909 to 1057, solidifies its well-deserved ranking.
The arc greatly expands the series' lore and delivers nice battles to watch. The Straw Hat Pirates reunite and ally to confront the Beasts Pirates and their leader, Kaido. The Wano arc showcases epic clashes and reveals important information that reshapes fans' understanding of the series.
5. Arlong Park
Arlong Park holds a special place among the series' most iconic storylines despite being considered one of the earlier arcs in the One Piece Series. It showcases the great impact of Nami's heartbreaking backstory and climaxes with Luffy's satisfying defeat of the ruthless Arlong.
The arc captivated many viewers, serving as their entry point into the series. With the additional revelations in Fishman Island, Arlong Park has gained even greater importance, appearing in chapters 69 - 95, solidifying its position as one of the best arcs in One Piece.
6. Dressrosa Arc
Dressrosa Arc's length and pacing in the anime series may have caused some viewers mixed feelings from chapters 700 to 801, but it undeniably deserves its high ranking. The arc introduces one of the series' most formidable antagonists, the Warlord Donquixote Doflamingo.
As the Straw Hat Pirates and their partners travel to Dressrosa, they are entangled with powerful forces. In this arc, Luffy's battle against the despicable villain Doflamingo unveils a new form. He amplifies his strength and delivers an exhilarating fight that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
7. Impel Down Arc
The Impel Down Arc from Chapters 525-549 is highly entertaining and engaging in the One Piece series, earning its place among the best arcs to watch in One Piece in 2023. It stands out for its reintroduction of past villains and follows the classic plot trope of a prison break.
Luffy goes on a daring mission to free his brother Ace from the subaquatic Impel Down prison, aided by an unlikely group of villains who portray surprising heroism.
The arc features thrilling fights, including an unforgettable clash between Luffy and the notorious pirate Blackbeard. The Impel Down Arc sets the stage for future adventures while delivering compelling moments, making it one of the greatest.
8. Whole Cake Island Arc
The Whole Cake Island Arc of Chapters 825-902 earns its high ranking among the top ten as it unveils the true danger posed by the Yonko. Luffy and his companions go on a rescue mission to save Sanji from an arranged marriage, only to get caught up in a plot to overthrow Big Mom.
Big Mom is a dangerous pirate and one of the fearsome four Emperors of the New World. With its surprisingly dark undertones, the Whole Cake Island arc introduces unique characters. This arc showcases One Piece's odd yet great setting, leaving a lasting impression on fans.
9. Thriller Bark Arc
Earning its spot among the top ten, the Thriller Bark Arc remains a notable entry among the best One Piece arcs episodes seen in Chapters 442-489. Despite being somewhat divisive, this arc introduces the enigmatic Straw Hat Brook, adding a unique dynamic to Luffy's group.
Notably, the Straw Hats also face the Warlords Of The Sea, with Gecko Moria standing out as a particularly menacing opponent. This intensifies the challenges the main anime characters must confront.
10. Alabasta Arc
Undoubtedly earning its place among the top ten, the Alabasta Arc is a truly iconic storyline within One Piece, appearing in Chapters 155-217. It's one of the most iconic arcs that chronicles the thrilling journey of the Straw Hat Pirates as they strive to prevent a catastrophic war.
Each crew member is pushed to their limits, engaging in intense battles against the warlord Crocodile and his formidable forces. The Alabasta arc extends beyond its gripping action as it enters into the rich lore of One Piece and grants characters like Robin and Nami a chance to shine in pivotal roles.
Best One Piece arcs - Wrapping up
Eiichiro Oda's popular series, One Piece, is a masterpiece in the world of anime sagas. Since earlier on, the series has become one of the greatest anime. With its blend of thrilling battles and humour, there are numerous fan-favourite best One Piece arcs to enjoy throughout the series' long history.
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