Undoubtedly, the development of the top-rated episodes of One Piece has been a fascinating aspect of the TV anime adaptation of Eiichiro Oda’s original manga series in recent times. The intrigue is mainly due to the fact that numerous recent episodes have made it into the top ten of the series, regardless of which website is consulted.
The recent episodes of One Piece have captured fans’ attention not only because of their high-quality animation, but also because they evoke nostalgia and strong emotions. According to the IMDB’s official website, some of the highest-rated One Piece episodes feature intense emotional moments and thrilling fight scenes, which remind viewers of the series’ origins.
The list below features IMDB’s top 10 highest-rated episodes of One Piece, ranked from the 10th best to the very best.
The Emotional Significance of Top-Rated One Piece Episodes on IMDB
Episode 808
Kicking off the list is unquestionably one of the most emotionally impactful episodes in the series. Its notoriety stems from the moment when Luffy declares to Sanji that he cannot achieve his dream of becoming the Pirate King without him. The episode shows Sanji physically attacking Luffy as Nami tries to intervene, all because Sanji is struggling with the idea of leaving the Straw Hats, even though it deeply pains him to do so.
This episode holds a deserving place among the highest-rated One Piece episodes of all time (according to IMDB) because of the emotional impact of this particular scene. Additionally, the Whole Cake Island arc focuses on Sanji’s character development. For many, the final scene of this episode is a crucial moment in shaping Sanji’s journey throughout and beyond the arc.
Episode 482
Undoubtedly, episode 482 also deserves a place among the top-rated One Piece episodes. As the Marineford arc came to a close and Luffy managed to save Ace, viewers were devastated by Whitebeard’s selfless sacrifice for his son. It was even more tragic to witness Ace succumb to Akainu’s provocation and ultimately take a fatal blow to safeguard Luffy’s well-being.
Fans hold a special place in their hearts for Episode 482 as it marks the climactic finale of the Marineford arc. Despite being on the cusp of victory, Ace’s recklessness and Luffy’s fatigue ultimately resulted in his tragic and devastating death, leaving a lasting impact on viewers even to this day.
8) Episode 483
Similarly, Ace’s death scene is fittingly placed one rank above its introduction. While the entire episode is exceptional, it is Ace’s poignant speech and final words that solidify its position on this list. In his final moments, Ace expresses gratitude for the love shown to him by others and passes away with a peaceful smile. The episode concludes with a visibly drained and emotionally overwhelmed Luffy collapsing into a state of tears.
This episode’s lasting impact on fans can be attributed to the brutal and definitive nature of Ace’s death, especially when considering what the series had previously shown. His final words and the harrowing details of his demise make it a defining moment in the anime series.
Episode 377
The episode that holds the top spot on IMDB’s list of the best-rated One Piece episodes is also known for featuring a pivotal moment in the series. In this episode, Zoro bravely takes on Kuma in order to protect Luffy. Kuma responds by challenging Zoro to endure all of the pain he has experienced throughout the arc in exchange for Luffy’s safety. The unforgettable climax of the episode occurs when Zoro, bloodied and battered, confidently tells Sanji that “nothing happened”with Kuma after successfully defeating him.
From its debut in the series, this scene has received widespread praise from fans and remains a beloved moment even 16 years later. It was a pivotal moment for Zoro’s development, showcasing his unwavering loyalty and determination to fulfill his promise to Luffy and support him in achieving his dream. This impactful moment has stood the test of time and solidified its place as a defining moment for Zoro’s character.
Episode 1015
In episode 1015, Zoro once again joins his captain in a perilous battle against Big Mom and Kaido on the Skull Dome Rooftop of Onigashima. Accompanied by Trafalgar Law, Eustass Kid, and Killer, the two face their enemies in a fierce showdown. This culminates in a heartwarming moment where Luffy deals the first significant blow to Kaido, driven by his newfound understanding of Wano and the people who have led him there. The scene is preceded by a flashback featuring Ace, a popular character amongst fans.
The buildup to Luffy’s attack on Kaido is undeniably one of the main reasons why this One Piece episode is highly rated. Along with the thrilling Ace/Yamato flashback, the anticipation leading up to this moment is also a major factor contributing to its success. The entire arc leading up to this point has been building towards the epic confrontation between the Yonko and the Worst Generation.
Episode 1062: The Final Showdown
Throughout the Wano arc, there were hints and buildup that Zoro possessed Conqueror’s Haki. These hints culminated in the opening scenes of Episode 1062, which confirmed Zoro’s possession of this powerful ability. Not only that, but the episode also features an incredible fight scene where Zoro unveils a new form fueled by his Conqueror’s Haki and emerges victorious in a stunning display of skill. This is why Episode 1062 was chosen for inclusion, as it serves as the ultimate payoff to the buildup throughout the arc.
In contrast to previous entries, episode 1062 stands out as one of the primary factors for its inclusion in IMDB’s top ten. It marks the pinnacle of the Wano arc’s new Naohiro Shintani-inspired art style and is widely considered by dedicated viewers as the best-animated episode of the series thus far.
Episode 1100
Despite this, episode 1100 is likely superior to 1062 because of the highly impactful and exceptionally well-animated fight it features. This episode marks the long-awaited rematch between Luffy and Lucci, both of whom now possess Awakened Devil Fruits, resulting in a stunning clash. The animation in this scene is truly breathtaking and showcases the immense potential of animation. Furthermore, viewers are treated to a wealth of information about Devil Fruits from Dr. Vegapunk as the fight unfolds.
Despite the undeniable impact of the lore reveal, it is the epic showdown between Lucci and Luffy in episode 1100 that solidifies its position as one of the most adored episodes in the series. Not only is the fight expertly animated, but the weight of the long-awaited rematch and the anticipation built up over the course of the series make it an unforgettable moment for fans.
Episode 484: The Final Battle
One of the primary factors contributing to episode 484’s placement on IMDB’s list of the best-rated One Piece episodes is its gripping plot twists and intense fight scenes. The episode opens with Whitebeard seeking revenge against Akainu for Ace’s death, but the tension escalates when the Blackbeard Pirates unexpectedly appear. Meanwhile, the Whitebeard Pirates are also dealing with the impending loss of their beloved leader.
The episode successfully blends both elements to create an exhilarating experience, taking fans on a rollercoaster of emotions from satisfaction and reassurance to utter uncertainty about Oda’s next move. This thrilling sensation carries over into the subsequent episode (485), the finale of the Marineford arc, which has earned the highest rating on IMDB among all One Piece episodes.
Episode 405: The Return
Placed between episodes 484 and 485 is arguably the most heart-wrenching installment of the series to date. Concluding the Sabaody Archipelago arc, the episode begins with the other Straw Hats bewildered by Zoro’s sudden disappearance. This marks the beginning of the systematic dismantling of the crew, leaving a shattered and weeping Luffy to face the harsh reality that he has let his comrades down.
This episode is highly revered due to the intense emotional impact it had on fans when it first aired. Throughout the series, the Straw Hats had always managed to come out on top, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. However, in this episode, viewers gradually came to the realization that this would be their first true and inevitable defeat.
Episode 485
According to IMDB, Blackbeard’s arrival and his new crew continue to shock fans in the series, making episode 485 the top-rated episode. The legendary Yonko is briefly taken down by Whitebeard and his crew before being ultimately shot to death. However, in his dying moments, Whitebeard confirms the existence of the One Piece, inspiring both fans and the global population of the series.
The scene is widely considered one of the most memorable moments in the entire series and provides a fitting conclusion for one of its most beloved characters. Additionally, the episode effectively establishes Blackbeard as a formidable adversary, challenging the previous perception of him as merely a lucky individual.
In summation
Despite a few exceptions, the majority of highly-rated One Piece episodes establish a strong emotional connection with viewers. Whether it evokes feelings of sadness, excitement, joy, or anything in between, it is evident that sentimentality plays a significant role in the show’s popularity. Additionally, as demonstrated by some episodes, having skilled animators and a generous animation budget can also contribute to its success.
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