Oda’s Reverse Journey in One Piece’s Post-Time-Skip

Despite being fans of the same series, there are varying opinions among One Piece enthusiasts. One popular topic of discussion is the differences between the series before and after the time-skip. Many have noticed that Luffy’s journey after the time-skip seems to mirror the one he went through before, but in reverse.

Despite being nothing new, fans continue to draw comparisons between different arcs in One Piece, such as Whole Cake Island to Enies Lobby and Dressrosa to Alabasta. This could be intentional on the part of author Eiichiro Oda, who may be setting up for an intriguing and circular conclusion to the series.

This article includes plot details that may spoil the series for readers.

Exploring the Similarities between the Post-Time-Skip and Pre-Time-Skip of One Piece

A user on X, known as @bored_beck, has proposed the theory that the events after the time-skip will mirror those before the time-skip but in reverse. This suggests that the ending of the series will be an opposite of the beginning. According to this user, Luffy’s fate will be death and the Straw Hats will disband, mirroring how the protagonist began his journey alone without even a boat.

The theory suggests that the current arc, Egghead, is reminiscent of Skypiea. The Straw Hats are planning to leave the island and travel to the moon, where the antagonist of the previous arc, Enel, is currently located. There is also speculation that Elbaf could be similar to Alabasta, with several smaller arcs leading up to a final showdown.

It is anticipated that the Laugh Tale segment of the narrative, which centers around the pursuit of the fabled treasure, will involve the collaboration of various antagonists from the East Blue saga, including Don Krieg, Arlong, and Captain Kuro, joining forces with Blackbeard and his crew to seek retribution against Luffy. Ultimately, a decisive battle would take place in Mary Geoise, with the main characters facing off against Imu and his remaining loyal army.

What to expect from the series’ conclusion

Gol D. Roger as seen in the anime (Image via Toei Animation)

Author Eiichiro Oda has added numerous secrets to the One Piece storyline, making the ending a complex and highly anticipated event for fans. Among these secrets are the true identity and motivations of Imu, the mysteries surrounding the Void Century, the events at God Valley, and the complete story of Joy Boy. With so much to uncover, the resolution of these secrets remains a top priority for fans.

An illustrative instance of this is demonstrated in the Egghead arc of the manga, where the recorded speech of Dr. Vegapunk uncovered that Gol D. Roger, famously known as the King of the Pirates, had knowledge of the gradual decline of the world, yet took no action.

Conclusion

While it is understandable that the post-time-skip One Piece series may have similarities to the pre-time-skip, there is no guarantee of this. Nevertheless, it does demonstrate the fans’ desire for a fulfilling conclusion to the series.

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