One Piece's Worst Generation Ranked By Morality

Summary

Marshall D. Teach, alias Blackbeard, is the most immoral pirate in the Worst Generation, willing to betray and murder for power.
Eustass Kid shows brutal tendencies and a disregard for collateral damage, earning his place among the worst pirates.
Zoro, while often reserved and distant, exhibits a deeply honorable and moral nature, making him one of the most moral in the group.

The nickname “The Worst Generation” refers to several pirates who were generally independent from other groups. The majority of these pirates consist of the eleven super rookies, who had bounties exceeding 100,000,000 berries prior to their arrival at Sabaody. The twelfth member of this group is Marshall D. Teach, a pirate who didn’t have a bounty but was given the title due to his capture of the renowned Portgas D. Ace.

Although they belong to the same category, it’s crucial to understand that these pirate groups have drastically different long-term aspirations. While they may temporarily join forces, they are seldom loyal partners for an extended period. This discussion will delve into how the ethical standards of these pirates compare with each other.

12. Marshall D. Teach

The Worst Of The Worst Generation

Debut: Chapter 223 (Manga), Episode 146 (Anime)
Crew: Blackbeard Pirates (Captain/Admiral), Whitebeard Pirates (Formerly)

Blackbeard, often called Marshall D. Teach, is one of the least honorable pirates in the series. He seems to disregard any sense of morality when it comes to achieving his somewhat mysterious objectives. Initially, he joined the Whitebeard Pirates as a child, drawn by the possibility that they might find a Devil Fruit he desired. His prediction proved correct, but even after many years with the crew, he remained relentless in pursuit of his long-term ambition. He killed Thatch, the commander who had discovered the Devil Fruit, and then left, violating Whitebeard’s one rule about not harming fellow pirates.

Later on, he assembled a team and, following the capture of Ace, became part of the Seven Sea Kings, a title given to pirates backed by the government. Utilizing this position, he managed to infiltrate Impel Down, an oceanic penitentiary, and freed its most dangerous inmates. He did so by descending to the prison’s hidden sixth level, where criminals whose crimes required erasure from history are confined. There, he incited many of them to fight to the death and kept the survivors aboard. During the Great Pirate War, he orchestrated the assassination of Whitebeard, a figure who had protected him and regarded him as a son for years. Subsequently, he seized Whitebeard’s Devil Fruit powers for his own use. Teach then assumed Whitebeard’s position among the Four Emperors and took control over many territories that Whitebeard had safeguarded.

Teach consistently exceeds expectations when it comes to unethical behavior. He labels his crew as partners of necessity rather than genuine friends, using this sentiment to persuade retired marine admiral Kuzan to join him. Since his rise in power, he has demonstrated physical violence towards crew members such as Doc Q and Stronger. Additionally, Teach supports several assassinations aimed at Devil Fruit users, primarily those who are lesser known, with the ultimate goal of acquiring their powers.

11. Eustass Kid

A Truly Brutal Pirate

Debut: Chapter 498 (Manga), Episode 392 (Anime)
Crew: Kid Pirates (Captain)

Although Kid sometimes aligns with Luffy, it could be argued that he exhibits a level of immorality that even surpasses some of his adversaries from the Worst Generation. Similar to Luffy, Kid resists anyone attempting to dominate him. However, unlike Luffy, Kid has intentionally caused significant destruction in pursuit of his goals, which sets him apart. His anger often leads him to mete out death or injury. The high number of civilian casualties resulting from these actions significantly increased Kid’s bounty and solidified his position within the Worst Generation.

The reason Kid was defeated recently can be attributed to Shanks predicting the harm his attack would inflict on Elbaf. This foresight led him to knock out Kid, while Dorry and Broggy destroyed his vessel. It’s important to note that Kid initiated the first violent act. Despite his contempt for the World Government and World Nobles, Kid’s praises don’t mask his history of aggressive actions. However, most of his questionable deeds have been shown less frequently, except for his recent altercation in Elbaf. His character traits align with the reckless and destructive behavior he is famous for.

10. Killer

Massacre Soldier

Debut: Chapter 498 (Manga), Episode 392 (Anime)
Crew: Kid Pirates

Among the pirates in the infamous Worst Generation, Killer stands out as one of only two who are not captains. Just like his former captain, he gained this recognition through the widespread devastation he wrought during his early days as a pirate. He is not shy about taking lives, even going so far as to act as an assassin for Wano’s shogun, Kurozumi Orochi. However, Orochi discarded him after he failed in his mission to kill a young girl named Toko, not because of any lack of effort on his part.

The malfunctioning SMILE was given to the Killer, who consumed it to safeguard his team, sacrificing his own swimming capacity. In essence, the ethical and immoral traits of Kid can be seen mirrored in Killer. However, there’s a minor distinction: on some occasions, Killer tries to control Kid, showing a slightly lower tolerance for destruction, although it may just be due to strategic considerations.

9. Scratchmen Apoo

Conniving Opportunist

Debut: Chapter 498 (Manga), Episode 392 (Anime)
Crew: Beasts Pirates, On Air Pirates (Captain)

Notably, Apoo managed to trick both the Kid Pirates and Hawkins Pirates into forming an alliance against Kaido. The captains agreed to this, albeit reluctantly. However, Apoo cleverly used this alliance as a means to forcefully incorporate these two crews into his Beasts Pirates. The only other choice for them was imprisonment in Wano Country. Although Apoo may not appear as cruel as other members of the Worst Generation Pirates, his willingness to adopt the morals of more ruthless pirates and to betray his supposed allies by placing them in unwinnable situations demonstrates that he is indeed a mastermind schemer.

In a rather intriguing twist, I must admit that Apoo doesn’t seem to delight in cruelty for its own sake, but his readiness to aid those who do, in subtle ways, hints at a certain flexibility in his personal moral compass. Interestingly, he has stayed longer with the Beasts Pirates than many of his Worst Generation peers, which suggests a unique bond or allegiance.

8. Basil Hawkins

Card-Carrying Cruelty

Debut: Chapter 498 (Manga), Episode 392 (Anime)
Crew: Beasts Pirates, Hawkins Pirates (Captain)

To some pirates, acting immorally comes naturally; Hawkins, however, leans more towards less immoral behavior. He portrays himself as a pragmatist, but the actions he takes are primarily based on what his situation tells him will be most advantageous. Interestingly, Hawkins chose to join the Beasts Pirates because he saw no other alternative that would guarantee his survival.

I’ve noticed an individual who possesses a unique ability, reminiscent of a Devil Fruit. This power enables him to shift his suffering onto others, even causing harm up to and including fatalities. He doesn’t shy away from using hostages, employing threats against the lives of their associates as leverage. However, it’s essential to clarify that he’s not inherently bloodthirsty; rather, he strategically utilizes certain allies as shields to absorb damage in his stead.

There’s a hint of honor in him, primarily evident when he adheres to his promises when ultimatums are met. He tends to steer clear of conflict if possible, but his unflinching ruthlessness in the face of it suggests it’s a calculated move rather than an impulsive action. His survival-of-the-fittest mentality might not be rooted in moral principles, yet it does compel him to minimize unnecessary destruction, as he seems reluctant to cause harm otherwise.

7. Capone Bege

Not A Good Fella

Debut: Chapter 498 (Manga), Episode 392 (Anime)
Crew: Fire Tank Pirates (Captain), Big Mom Pirates (Formerly)

Bege is a gangster who ventured out on the high seas seeking adventure, though he wouldn’t turn down treasure, it’s the instability of rival groups that truly excites him. He takes pleasure in eliminating the leaders of these organizations and observing their collapse from within. Much like typical mafia characters, Bege is cruel but controlled. He’s a treacherous individual, known for betraying alliances, such as his failed assassination attempt on Big Mom. His tactics involve exploiting the weaknesses of his adversaries. Notably, he concocted a plan to destroy a photo of Mother Carmel, an orphanage owner who cared for him, in order to assassinate her. Additionally, he pretended to surrender as a ruse to get the upper hand against Charlotte Oven.

Despite being known for his toughness, Jimbei isn’t excessively harsh or malicious like some others in his sphere. He exercises caution when attacking and only escalates if provoked directly. Notably, he rarely exceeded the authority of the leaders he confronted during his mafia years unless they retaliated first. Known for his integrity, Jimbei respects both allies and enemies who prove their worth. He shows affection toward his family and, to a lesser extent, his crew, but may discipline them if needed. However, he is capable of betrayal, aggression, and underhanded tactics when necessary. Yet, he follows a personal code that prevents him from crossing certain lines.

6. X Drake

Double Agent

Debut: Chapter 498 (Manga), Episode 392 (Anime)
Crew: Drake Pirates (Captain; Undercover Role), Beasts Pirates (Formerly)

Drake, often thought of as a pirate, is actually an undercover marine disguised in that role for intelligence gathering. In truth, he leads SWORD, a group of marines who have resigned on paper, allowing them to execute covert missions without directly involving the government. As for his current objectives, they remain obscure; however, it’s evident that Drake engages both pirates and those representing the World Government when it serves his purpose.

He belonged to the Beasts Pirates, reaching the level of the Flying Six, which suggests he is among Kaido’s top nine lieutenants, with only the captain and his three All-Stars ranking higher. His ascension wasn’t due to idleness; on the contrary, it’s reported that he annihilated Amigasa Village in Wano, following orders from Kaido. This act reveals a more sinister aspect of Drake, as one who appears to employ any method necessary to achieve his objectives, suggesting that the ends justify the means for him. However, the specific aims behind these actions could shift our perspective on Drake as the narrative unfolds.

5. Trafalgar D. Water Law

A Pirate With A Heart And Then Some

Debut: Chapter 498 (Manga), Episode 392 (Anime)
Crew: Heart Pirates (Captain)

Law was once an associate of Luffy, joining the Straw Hat Pirates on their journey towards shared ambitions. Following Kaido’s conquest in Wano, however, he chose to break away from the crew and forge his own path. This decision ultimately led him into a confrontation with Blackbeard, ending in Law’s defeat, leaving many of his followers seemingly deceased. Unlike some, Law isn’t shy about using his Devil Fruit to instill fear, as he has the power to separate a person from their heart and pulverize it at will. Similar to Drake, Law is a practical individual who is willing to perform questionable actions to progress towards his objectives.

He significantly handed over a hundred pirate captains to the World Government, using the title of warlord as a disguise to gain access to protected territories run by the government. The details surrounding this event are unclear, except that it’s connected to the notorious Rocky Port Incident, which Blackbeard exploited to seize control over the nearby region. Law displays compassionate actions at times, such as saving Luffy’s life following the Summit War. However, there might be a cold, merciless aspect of him emerging now that it’s presumed his entire crew has perished.

4. Urouge

A Blank Slate

Debut: Chapter 498 (Manga), Episode 392 (Anime)
Crew: Fallen Monk Pirates (Captain)

At present, it’s challenging to gauge Urouge accurately. He might turn out to be more ruthless than Blackbeard, but so far, there’s no hint that he’s cruel or prone to committing terrible acts for any particular reason. In comparison to Luffy, he smiles frequently, though this rarely happens during critical situations.

Instead, Urouge displayed genuine prayers for Kaido when he saw him trying to take his own life. This act was surprising because it seemed Urouge wasn’t allied with him or his crew. Moreover, there was a clash between Urouge and the Big Mom Pirates, as his victory over Charlotte Snack led to his demotion from his sweet commander position.

Urouge’s behavior could significantly alter our views on his moral character once he fully joins the narrative. However, at present, he hasn’t committed any actions that could be considered even slightly immoral.

3. Jewelry Bonney

Appropriately Childish

Debut: Chapter 498 (Manga), Episode 392 (Anime)
Crew: Bonney Pirates

Initially, Bonney was depicted as a young woman who was quite unlikable, with habits like hoarding food, making a fuss, and behaving impolitely, much like an ungracious brat. However, she displayed a compassionate nature too. Notably, she protected Zoro from Saint Charlos, who probably would have executed him if he had fought back after being shot at earlier. It’s worth mentioning that her own safety would have been jeopardized if her plan had failed, potentially leading to her capture or demise.

More modern revelations have harmonized her peculiar blend of self-centered actions and unexpected ethical core; she is simply a young girl of 12 years old. Her Devil Fruit initially made it challenging to discern her true age. Most appearances portrayed her as an immature yet adult woman by default, but this was just another disguise. She has now been verified as not only the lone female member of the Worst Generation but also its youngest by several years. The aggressive and violent aspects of her behavior are softened due to the fact that they are not real threats from a ruthless assassin, but tantrums of a child with a sorrowful history. Her murderous animosity towards Vegapunk is diminished upon learning the painful truths about her adoptive father, Kuma’s past.

As I ponder over Bonney’s actions, it becomes evident that she exhibits a level of worldly wisdom beyond her years, surprising even me. Her unwavering determination to safeguard Zoro and rescue her father speaks volumes about her justice-oriented spirit. What truly sets her apart is her audacity to challenge the Five Elders, formidable adversaries in our tale, side by side with Luffy.

2. Roronoa Zoro

Unpleasant But Heroic

Debut: Chapter 3 (Manga), Episode 1 (Anime)
Crew: Straw Hat Pirates

Roronoa Zoro, along with Killer, is one of only two pirates not holding the captain title who belongs to the infamous Worst Generation. Before joining Luffy’s crew as the first mate, he had a budding career as a bounty hunter on the high seas. Compared to his fellow Straw Hat Pirate comrades, Zoro often maintains a more composed demeanor and is less expressive of emotions.

Regardless, Zoro is fundamentally a noble and ethical character. He has demonstrated a readiness to safeguard those he thinks are incapable of protecting themselves. For instance, it was Zoro who confronted Killer when the pirate aimed to kill Toko. Additionally, despite not knowing him, Zoro transported Judy, another of Charlos’ victims, to the hospital. Zoro also displayed anger towards Charlos when he attacked Hatchan, even though Hatchan had previously mistreated Nami, a crewmate of Zoro, and had a longstanding dispute with Zoro himself.

Zoro’s moral compass can be challenging to discern because he doesn’t always come across as a straightforwardly compassionate person. His demeanor is aloof, and he frequently downplays or denies having certain feelings that he thinks are inappropriate for a swordsman. However, beneath this facade lies an unwavering moral code and a compulsion to fight for justice, even when he appears cold and calculating. He often exhibits aggressive tendencies, but these actions rarely escalate excessively before being moderated.

In addition to being fiercely loyal to Luffy, despite setting high standards for his captain and occasionally suggesting he might leave the crew if those standards aren’t met, Zoro hasn’t carried out this threat yet. Instead, he supports Luffy’s leadership as a model his comrades should emulate, and is quick to yield to him, even when trying to keep him in check, like Killer does for Kid. Zoro often displays respect towards his adversaries, preferring a dignified but honorable fight over underhanded tactics. His unwavering commitment to his principles and selfless nature make him one of the most morally upright members of the Worst Generation.

1. Monkey D. Luffy

Kindness Before Reason

Debut: Chapter 1 (Manga), Episode 1 (Anime)
Crew: Straw Hat Pirates (Captain)

In the current narrative, Luffy, despite being under 20 years old, comes across as immature and somewhat simple-minded. However, it’s this naive quality that seems to propel him to a remarkable level of morality. Luffy consistently demonstrates a readiness to help anyone in distress, be it a fellow crew member or a complete stranger. He also tends to show respect towards those who have been kind to him, often doing so even when such deference appears unjustified.

His actions stem from a profound aspiration for universal “liberty,” which leads him to assist those who are clearly oppressed. He has proven his commitment by physically freeing numerous territories from both pirates and burdensome administration. Despite his immature behavior occasionally making him seem uncaring towards others, it never overshadows his sincere concern for their welfare. Although Luffy may appear selfish and greedy at times, this trait does not seem to harm others directly.

It’s yet unclear what the final result of Luffy’s journey will be, but given his dedication to liberating all, it’s probable that he will remain the most honorable among the Worst Generation.

2025-01-09 13:34

One Piece’s Worst Generation Ranked By Morality