After Elbaf, It’s Time To Admit Oda Has Ruined Usopp Forever

The Elbaf arc in One Piece has quickly become a fan favorite, thanks to its thrilling plot and the compelling new characters introduced by Oda, like Loki Gunko. The arc has also deepened our understanding of existing characters, including Imu and members of the Straw Hat crew, while revealing fascinating details about the One Piece world. Overall, the Elbaf arc has been exceptionally well-received and hasn’t disappointed fans.

Throughout the last year of the story, one important aspect has been consistently overlooked: Usopp’s development. Because Usopp’s entire character is so closely linked to the island of Elbaf, fans naturally expected a lot from this arc. When Elbaf was announced, many hoped it would give Usopp the chance to grow, as his progress has stalled recently. Fans felt he needed this development to prepare for the challenges coming in the final part of the story. However, so far, the Elbaf arc hasn’t delivered for Usopp, and if this continues, it’s possible his character arc will end without fulfilling its potential.

Usopp’s Dream Is To Get To Elbaf And Become A Brave Warrior Of The Sea

Usopp’s Dream Is Inherently Tied To Elbaf

Usopp has a strong connection to the island of Elbaf. After meeting the giants Dorry and Brogy in Little Garden, he became captivated by their culture and aspired to be like them. This is particularly interesting because Usopp is often seen as the weakest member of the Straw Hat Pirates, while giants are the strongest race in the One Piece world. This contrast creates a compelling storyline, offering the potential for Usopp to grow from a timid character into a courageous warrior.

I want to become a Brave Warrior of the Sea! — Usopp, One Piece

Usopp was deeply impressed by Dorry and Brogy’s courage and strong sense of pride, even when facing danger. This encounter sparked a desire in him to travel to Elbaf and become a renowned warrior, a goal that connects to his overall journey and has excited fans about his potential development in that future storyline.

Usopp’s time in Elbaf hasn’t been very impactful for his character development. After a year spent in the country, he’s been one of the least involved members of the Straw Hat crew. Despite being inspired by the culture and wanting to achieve part of his dream there, Usopp hasn’t really played a significant role in the story so far. In fact, the arc could have progressed almost identically even if he hadn’t been present, highlighting how little he’s contributed.

Usopp Has Been Disappointing In Elbaf So Far

Usopp’s Character Has Stagnated In Elbaf

Since arriving on Elbaf, Usopp initially fought creatures within Rodo’s Diorama Castle, but since then, his storyline has mostly involved socializing with giants and being captured by Gunko. For about a year in the story, he hasn’t contributed much to the main plot. While a large part of that time was dedicated to the flashback about Loki, which took place 109 years ago, all the other Straw Hat crew members have experienced some kind of meaningful development or advancement.

Who is brave enough to pull Excalibur from the head of Jarul? Is there anyone who dares? — Usopp

Luffy naturally takes center stage as the main character, but characters like Sanji and Zoro have also had their moments to shine. Nami recently accompanied Zoro to Aurust Castle, and even Chopper played a key role by rescuing Scopper Gaban in Elbaf. Plus, Nico Robin’s backstory involving Saul has been a significant focus of the story.

Brook and Gunko share a developing relationship that Oda is gradually revealing as the story progresses. Meanwhile, Franky’s storyline delved into the history of the One Piece world, ultimately leading fans to learn about Harley.

So far in the Elbaf arc, Usopp hasn’t lived up to expectations compared to the other Straw Hats, which has been a letdown for many fans. This arc was expected to be a major turning point for his character, and if he doesn’t receive the development he needs, it could seriously damage his character arc in the long run.

Usopp Has Only Been Involved In Gags

Currently, Oda seems to be using Usopp mostly for comedic relief in the Elbaf arc. The only significant thing he’s done so far was remarking on pulling Excalibur from Lord Jarul’s head. While this might be a hint at future events, it felt like a joke at the time.

When Jarul revealed Elbaf would fight back against Imu’s forces, Usopp surprisingly cheered with visible excitement, which frustrated many fans. This felt out of character for Usopp, and viewers were disappointed to see him simply watching the conflict instead of actively contributing, as they’ve come to expect him to do.

That’s the Elbaf I love. Show pride and fight back! — Usopp

The problem isn’t with Usopp as a character, but with the author, Eiichiro Oda, not developing him enough right now. While Oda could still give Usopp a strong storyline later on, fans aren’t optimistic, considering his lack of development in recent years. If Usopp doesn’t get a significant character arc in Elbaf, many fans likely won’t expect much from him for the rest of the series.

After Elbaf, There Is No Coming Back For Usopp

Elbaf Will Make Or Break Usopp

The Elbaf arc is crucial for Usopp’s development as a character. If Oda doesn’t handle this part of the story well, it will be difficult to live up to the expectations created for him. This doesn’t mean Usopp can’t have important moments later on, but the arc directly related to his dream of becoming a great warrior could end up being a letdown if it’s not executed properly.

Eiichiro Oda, the creator of One Piece, has consistently developed his characters well, but many fans are starting to believe Usopp won’t reach the same level of importance as characters like Luffy, Zoro, and Sanji – or even Nami and Robin. Usopp has felt increasingly sidelined, particularly after the time skip, and while the Dressrosa arc offered a glimmer of hope, the upcoming Elbaf arc could definitively confirm this. This arc feels crucial for Usopp’s character; fans are hoping Oda will find a way to give him the significant role he deserves.

2026-02-07 14:37