The Best One Piece Characters, Ranked

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One Piece” initially started as a manga comic back in 1997, and later became an anime series in 1999. Ever since their debut in the ’90s, they have continued to captivate audiences worldwide. Their creator, Eiichiro Oda, has hinted that the story might soon come to a close, making the day “One Piece” concludes highly anticipated, as it’s among the longest-running Shonen Jump series in history.

In the world of One Piece, both the anime and manga introduce a vast array of characters, including Luffy and his Straw Hat Pirates’ allies and foes. Narrowing down ten favorites from such a large cast can be challenging, but after years of reading and watching, these characters have left an indelible impression. The ranking will be determined by their appeal and the impact they’ve made on One Piece.

From the anime and manga of One Piece, Luffy and his Straw Hat Pirates encounter countless allies and enemies. Selecting just ten for a favorites list may seem difficult due to the hundreds of characters available. Nevertheless, over time, these particular characters have stood out in our minds. The ranking will be based on their charm and influence within the One Piece storyline.

Nefertari Vivi

A Temporary Straw Hat

Initially introduced as Miss Wednesday during the ‘Reverse Mountain’ storyline, Vivi serves as an adversary. Similar to numerous other antagonists in the anime, Vivi forms alliances with the Straw Hat Pirates and even becomes a member for quite some time, starting in Season 2 and continuing until Season 4.

In simpler terms, Vivi is the princess of Alabasta, and Luffy pledges assistance for her. Despite not being a formidable fighter, Vivi plays a crucial role as an honorary crew member, providing aid to the Straw Hat Pirates on multiple occasions.

Kizaru

A Menacing Marine

In simpler terms, Kizaru is a powerful marine soldier who made his most significant appearance at Sabaody Archipelago. His abilities involve manipulating light due to consuming the Pika Pika no Mi Devil Fruit, allowing him to transform his body into light and use it as a weapon. He played important roles in Marineford Arc and is presently featured in Egghead Arc.

What sets him apart among villains is his impressive strength and casual demeanor toward his adversaries.

Gecko Moria

Watch Your Back, Peter Pan

Gecko Moria, also known as the “Giant, Balloon-Like Vampire,” plays a significant role in both the Thriller Bark Saga and the Marineford Arc, being one of the major antagonists in these storylines. He is the captain of the Thriller Bark Pirates and possesses an exceptional ability to manipulate shadows due to his Devil Fruit, Kage Kage no Mi.

In this particular arc, we’re introduced to Brook, another member of the Straw Hat Pirates crew, and it stands out for numerous reasons, one being the presence of terrifying monsters that seem reminiscent of characters from a Tim Burton film. The antagonist, Gecko Moria, is exceptionally strong and exudes pure evil, which has earned him popular acclaim due to his contagious laugh.

This arc features the introduction of Brook, another Straw Hat Pirate, and it’s notable for its eerie creatures that resemble characters from a Tim Burton movie. Gecko Moria, the villain, is extremely powerful and unquestionably evil, making him a beloved character thanks to his captivating cackle.

Foxy

Wario, In Anime Form

Among the amusing minor antagonists in One Piece, Foxy stands out, playing a significant role during the Long Ring Long Land Arc. He’s the captain of the Foxy Pirates, not unlike the Straw Hat Pirates, they all share a common desire for fun and adventure. In a playful challenge against Luffy’s crew, Foxy proposes a series of events, offering the release of their crew members in return.

Foxy’s abilities stem from the Noro Noro no Mi Devil Fruit, which slows down opponents’ actions, giving him an advantage. He made several appearances in filler arcs of the anime, but this was his most significant role within the main storyline. Despite being featured in only one major arc, Foxy left a lasting impact due to his Wario-like appearance and comical behavior.

Dracule Mihawk

A Foreboding Foe

Zoro is indeed impressive, but it’s important to note that he isn’t considered the top swordsman in the series yet. That title generally goes to Dracule Mihawk, who is widely regarded as the strongest swordsman in the world. He has demonstrated his prowess multiple times, starting from the Baratie Arc and continuing throughout other story arcs where he often takes on antagonistic roles.

Despite being perceived as a villain, Mihawk recognizes talent in Zoro and temporarily mentors him. Mihawk exudes a charming, enigmatic aura that captivates us whenever he appears on screen, making him an intriguing figure to explore.

Bentham

Attack Of The Clones

In the Alabasta storyline, Bentham makes an appearance initially requiring assistance and subsequently revealed as an agent for Crocodile’s group, Baroque Works. His unique power comes from consuming the Mane Mane no Mi Devil Fruit, enabling him to create copies of whomever he touches. While he can’t engage in combat using these clones, this makes for a highly effective espionage tool.

Following a significant defeat, Bentham joins forces with the Straw Hat Pirates and frequently reappears, notably during the Impel Down Arc where he assists Luffy in recovery, aided by Emporio Ivankov. Much like Foxy, Bentham exudes a playful demeanor, but his role within the storyline far outweighs that of Foxy without question.

Smoker

Luffy’s Main Antagonist

The Straw Hat Pirates often find themselves pursued by numerous adversaries, yet among these antagonists, Smoker stands out as the most formidable. He’s nearly relentless in his pursuit of Luffy and his crew, driven by a strong sense of justice, yet he isn’t overly malicious. There’s an underlying respect for their determination, despite his gruff exterior. First appearing in the Loguetown Arc, Smoker showcased his unique Moku Moku no Mi Devil Fruit abilities, enabling him to command smoke.

In an easy-to-understand manner: Just as Smoker relentlessly pursues the pirate Luffy in the world of One Piece, much like how Inspector Zenigata chases after the thief Lupin III in Lupin the 3rd, it’s clear that these characters are iconic within their respective anime universes. However, it’s worth noting that Smoker is notably more skillful than Zenigata, and perhaps one day, he will successfully capture his elusive quarry.

Luffy

A Stretchy Himbo

In this popular animated series, Luffy undeniably shines as a key character, earning him a well-deserved position on the roster. He possesses immense strength derived from his elastic Gum-Gum Devil Fruit, exhibits a lively personality, relishes every adventure, and above all, he’s deeply compassionate at heart.

He’s not the sharpest tool in the shed, often letting his appetite for food and penchant for brawling guide his decisions, yet when someone is in need, whether it’s a stranger or friend, Luffy will step up to help. He’s irreplaceable, serving as the bond that holds everything together, ensuring there would be no series without him.

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He’s not the most intelligent of the bunch, often letting his appetite for food and love for fighting lead the way, but when someone needs help, whether a friend or stranger, Luffy is always ready to lend a hand. Without him, there wouldn’t be a series because he is the one who holds everything together.

Nami

More Than Just A Navigator

Among the Straw Hat Pirates, Nami serves as a reliable navigator and is one of their initial associates, much like Usopp. Unlike many of her comrades, Nami doesn’t rely on brute strength for tasks; instead, she utilizes tools. However, when it comes to finding the right opponent, she consistently emerges victorious in battles.

What sets her apart as an outstanding character, even beyond combat, is her authentic life goals. Nami is determined and resourceful, working tirelessly to achieve what she desires without compromising loyalty to her friends. Moreover, it’s enjoyable observing a female character who isn’t defined solely by romantic pursuits or damsel-in-distress situations.

Zoro

Simply Too Cool

Among the Straw Hat Pirates, including Luffy and Nami, Zoro undeniably stands out as the coolest and most formidable member. Initially, his unique sword-fighting style involving mouth swords might appear comical, but he masterfully executes it, making it less surprising over time.

Zoro aspires to be the most formidable sword-wielder globally, not a pirate per se, yet finds himself joining the crew due to his profound admiration for Luffy. Despite Luffy being the soul of the team, Zoro clearly embodies the strength and charisma that every impressive anime ensemble requires.

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2025-08-14 22:53