One Piece Arcs With The Highest Stakes, Ranked

Key Takeaways

Impel Down Arc: Luffy faces high stakes while trying to infiltrate, survive, and escape a maximum-security prison to save his brother Ace.
Thriller Bark Arc: The crew risks losing the ability to live under sunlight if they fail to defeat Moria and retrieve their stolen shadows.
Wano Country Arc: Luffy aims to save the suffering people of Wano from the tyrannical Kaido and prevent a potential global catastrophe.

As a long-time fan of One Piece and someone who has followed the story since its early days, I can confidently say that each arc brings unique stakes and challenges for our beloved characters. From saving Ace at Marineford to battling Kaido in Wano Country, it’s clear that the world of One Piece is always on the brink of war or catastrophe.

Over the past almost three decades, One Piece has generated numerous remarkable and memorable story arcs. Some of these are relatively brief, such as the Loguetown arc spanning only 7 episodes or the Return to Sabaody arc with just 6 episodes. Conversely, other arcs are considerably lengthy, including the Skypiea arc consisting of 43 episodes and the Wano Country arc encompassing a whopping 191 episodes.

Regardless of their length, each tale carries a significant hurdle or risk for our protagonists to conquer. Keeping this perspective, here are some of the story arcs in One Piece that boast the greatest perils.

10. Impel Down Arc

Infiltrate, Surviving, And Escape From The Impel Down Prison

Saga: Summit War Saga
Chapters: 25 (525-549)
Episodes: 27 (422-425 and 430-452)

Among the story arcs in the Summit War Saga, none are as thrilling as the Impel Down arc, except for Marineford. In this captivating segment, Luffy embarks on a mission to rescue his brother, Portgas D. Ace, who is imprisoned in the infamous Impel Down penitentiary, facing imminent execution. However, he quickly realizes that merely surviving within these fortified walls proves challenging, let alone attempting an escape with others.

Initially, it may appear that the goal in this situation is merely ensuring Ace’s freedom. After all, if Luffy managed to free Ace from the deepest level of Impel Down, Ace would be a free man, alive right now. However, given the tough circumstances and hurdles Luffy faces during his descent into the prison, it becomes evident that Luffy’s own life and freedom are equally at risk in this endeavor as well.

9. Thriller Bark Arc

Losing the Ability to Live Under the Sun

Saga: Thriller Bark Saga
Chapters: 48 (442-489)
Episodes: 45 (337-381)

In the world of “One Piece,” it’s often debated that the Thriller Bark arc is among the most underestimated storylines, perhaps even surpassing others in terms of significance. While many recall this arc primarily as the point where Brook joined the Straw Hat Pirates, it offers a lot more action and carries greater importance than people might initially perceive.

The gravity of the situation lies in Gecko Moria, once among the Seven Sea Warriors, having purloined the shadows of several Straw Hat members. It was later discovered that Moria had pilfered the shadows of numerous individuals, potentially hundreds or even thousands. Without regaining their shadows, these people are doomed to existence under sunlight for eternity. Luffy and his crew must vanquish Moria and reclaim their shadows; otherwise, they may have to relinquish their grand sea voyage.

8. Whole Cake Island Arc

Losing Sanji And War With Big Mom

Saga: Whole Cake Island Saga
Chapters: 78 (825-902)
Episodes: 95 (783-877)

Initially, the main concern for the Straw Hat pirates during the Whole Cake Island arc revolves around the potential loss of Sanji. To put it simply, they desperately want to prevent this scenario from happening. This is because Sanji serves as the only cook on board, is one of their strongest fighters, and is an original crew member. To the Straw Hats, Sanji’s unique abilities and presence are irreplaceable.

As our journey unfolds, it’s evident that rescuing Sanji sets us on a path against the Big Mom Pirates, one of the Sea’s Four Emperors. With the Straw Hat crew, one misstep could be our end. What makes this saga even riskier is Big Mom’s unpredictable temper tantrums, putting countless island inhabitants in danger. Indeed, it seems we’re treading on some very high-stakes territory here.

7. Egghead Arc

Finding Out the Secret of the World and Surviving the Five Elders

Saga: Final Saga
Chapters: 68 (1058-1125)
Episodes: 37 (1086-Present)

Initially, the Straw Hat crew don’t plan to set foot on Egghead Island. Instead, they accidentally discover this advanced island, which unexpectedly houses Dr. Vegapunk, an inventor renowned as the greatest in history. At first glance, this voyage seems devoid of any significant purpose other than the ordinary perils that come with exploring uncharted lands. However, things take a different turn as events unfold.

As events unfold, they gradually discover themselves ensnared in a covert government scheme, facing assassination plots, unveiling massive hidden truths that the World Government desperately seeks to suppress. To make matters worse, their situation deteriorates rapidly, forcing them to dodge attacks from CP0, the Five Elders, and a Marine force prepared to trigger a Buster Call on the island.

6. Enies Lobby Arc

Losing Two Members and Declaring War on the World Government

Saga: Arabasta Saga
Chapters: 63 (155-217)
Episodes: 39 (92-130)

From a broader perspective, the Enies Lobby storyline may not significantly impact the daily lives of ordinary citizens within the One Piece world. However, it holds immense importance for the Straw Hat pirate crew as one of their most crucial chapters. The personal risks involved in this arc are extraordinarily high, and any missteps could potentially mean the end of the Straw Hats as a group.

In this arc, several significant events unfolded for the Straw Hat crew: Their vessel was destroyed, they were pursued for attempting to assassinate Water 7’s mayor, they rose to become the most wanted pirate crew by the World Government, they narrowly escaped destruction during the Buster Call, they came close to perishing at the hands of CP9, and there was a real possibility that two of their members might not have survived. Moreover, the dissolution of the Straw Hat Pirates was a very real threat in these events.

5. Skypiea Arc

Stopping a Civil War and a Tyrannical Leader

Saga: Sky Island Saga
Chapters: 6 (237-302)
Episodes: 43 (153-195)

Moving on, we delve deeper into matters affecting not just the crew’s personal sphere but the populace of the entire nation. In Skypiea, a long-standing conflict between the indigenous Shandians and immigrant Sky People, dating back centuries, is ongoing. Yet, they all endure under the oppressive rule of the deity “Enel.

In the heart of a three-way feud, the Straw Hat pirates find themselves caught up. They ventured to Sky Island with a spirit of discovery, but soon enough, it turned into an endless series of battles and a struggle for survival. Luffy recognizes that the malevolent deity is at the core of this conflict, and the swiftest means to halt this chaos is by defeating Enel. The outcome of their confrontation will decide the future of Sky Island’s inhabitants.

4. Arabasta Arc

Stopping the Rebellion and Taking Down an Evil Organization

Saga: Arabasta Saga
Chapters: 63 (155-217)
Episodes: 39 (92-130)

In comparison to Skypiea, Arabasta is experiencing a state of uprising instead of a prolonged civil war. The populace, growing weary under the escalating hardships, are rising against King Nerfertari Cobra, whom they view as an unjust and oppressive ruler. Consequently, the royal guards are also asserting their power over the people in response to this rebellion.

Unbeknownst to many, the turmoil, violence, and sorrow that’s unfolding is being masterfully manipulated by a clandestine group known as Baroque Works, with Crocodile serving as its head. If only Princess Vivi hadn’t returned to Arabasta alongside her friends, the Straw Hats, Crocodile might have achieved his objectives unimpeded. Much like Skypiea, the outcome of the Straw Hats confronting Baroque Works will significantly impact the future of the people residing in Arabasta.

3. Dressrosa Arc

Saving the People of Dressrosa from Their False King

Saga: Whole Cake Island Saga
Chapters: 23 (802-824)
Episodes: 29 (751-779)

Much like my fascination with Arabasta, I’ve found myself drawn to the vibrant city of Dressrosa, ruled by none other than the unpredictable Donquixote Doflamingo, one of the Seven Warlords of the Sea. Unlike in Arabasta, where a coup d’état was openly declared, Doflamingo seized control of Dressrosa through deceit and manipulation, dethroning its rightful ruler. Now, he stands as the undisputed leader, with a chilling power: challenge his authority, and you’ll be transformed into a lifeless doll, effectively erased from the minds of your loved ones.

The Straw Hat Pirates make their entrance, ready to confront Doflamingo as per the deal with Trafalgar Law’s Heart Pirates. However, things rapidly escalate when they uncover the hidden truth about the citizens of Dressrosa, witness some crew members transforming into dolls, learn that Luffy’s brother Ace’s Devil Fruit is the reward for a gladiator match, discover Doflamingo’s role in arming notorious criminals, and realize the Revolutionary Army is involved. Essentially, there’s a lot on the line as Luffy prepares to battle Doflamingo.

2. Wano Country Arc

Saving the People of Wano and War with Kaido

Saga: Wano Country Saga
Chapters: 149 (909-1057)
Episodes: 191 (890-1085)

In essence, Wano resembles Dressrosa, but it’s as if all the aspects have been amplified significantly. Unlike the apparent ruler, a shogun, who governs Wano, the true power lies with Kaido, one of the Four Sea Emperors. He exploits the nation’s resources to forge weapons and mold an army. The citizens are subjected to harsh labor conditions in his factories, and any individual who dares confront him is sent to a vast detention center where they endure daily torment.

In much the same vein as their arrival at Dressrosa, Luffy, together with the Straw Hat Pirates and their alliance consisting of ninjas, pirates, minks, and samurais, set foot in Wano with the aim of toppling Kaido. The more they witness the hardships faced by the people of Wano, the more resolute they become. It is later unveiled that Kaido plans to utilize the weapons and artificial Devil Fruits implanted in his soldiers for waging war against the World Government. Consequently, should Luffy fail to vanquish Kaido, the misery prevalent in Wano could potentially spread across the globe.

1. Marineford Arc

Losing Ace and Surviving an Open War

Saga: Summit War Saga
Chapters: 31 (550-580)
Episodes: 33 (457-489)

In the Marineford arc, it’s not solely about Ace’s life at stake; it runs much deeper than that. While those deeply attached to Ace are prepared to fight to rescue him, the World Government is not just acting out of a desire for public execution. They have bigger reasons. Ace holds significant importance to them beyond being just a young pirate.

Initially, Ace holds a significant position within the Whitebeard Pirates as their 2nd Division Commander. Eliminating him publicly would not only dishonor Whitebeard but also weaken his forces significantly. Additionally, Ace is the son of the former Pirate King, Gol D. Roger. Taking his life signifies the World Government’s rejection of Roger’s dreams and aspirations. Moreover, Ace shares a brotherly bond with Luffy, a pirate who has gained notoriety for outsmarting the Marines on multiple occasions. Killing Ace serves as a warning to Luffy and other aspiring rebels that defying the Marines and the World Government could lead to similar consequences.

Essentially, subduing Ace is akin to the Marines and the World Government proclaiming victory over piracy. This announcement serves as a beacon of trust worldwide, encouraging people to stand up against these criminal elements known as pirates. Moreover, it boosts the morale of every Marine worldwide, fueling their determination to apprehend pirates even more diligently. Regrettably, if Ace perished, life for every pirate became exponentially tougher, and that’s exactly what transpired. That day, the World Government didn’t merely eliminate a man; they snuffed out a symbol of defiance against their authority.

2024-12-02 20:38