Top 5 Essential One Piece Characters in the Final Saga & 5 That May Not Make a Significant Impact

As One Piece nears its monumental conclusion, the focus sharpens on characters pivotal to shaping the series’ final saga. Figures like Monkey D. Luffy and Saint Imu are expected to play critical roles in the ultimate battles and breakthroughs.

In contrast, as the story narrows its focus, the impact of noteworthy characters such as Kaido and Boa Hancock may diminish. This article outlines the characters anticipated to have a significant role and those likely to fade into the background, while also addressing some unresolved mysteries of this legendary journey.

One Piece characters who’ll play a major role in the Final Saga

1) Monkey D. Luffy

Monkey D. Luffy (Image via Toei Animation)

Luffy, the main protagonist, drives the plot with his dream of becoming the King of the Pirates by discovering the One Piece. He represents freedom and determination, challenging oppressive systems and motivating others to pursue their aspirations. His charisma bonds a diverse crew, exemplifying the essence of friendship and teamwork.

As he advances into the Elbaf arc, Luffy could unveil the secrets of the Void Century and continue the legacy of Gol D. Roger—not just for personal gain but to bring about a new dawn. His journey fuels hope and transformation, empowering the oppressed and leaving a lasting influence.

2) Shanks

Shanks’ role in One Piece is shrouded in mystery, with various theories about how he may impact the saga. He could be safeguarding the Will of D, supporting Luffy’s journey to Laugh Tale, or balancing the power of the World Government as a mediator.

His connection to Roger suggests potential insights into the discovery of the One Piece. Shanks might challenge Luffy as a final obstacle or reveal essential secrets regarding the Void Century and Ancient Weapons. Alternatively, he could face a tragic fate or embody a wild card with concealed motives.

3) Blackbeard

Blackbeard serves as Luffy’s ultimate adversary, marked by his dark ambitions and dual Devil Fruits, making him a substantial threat. His disruptive actions, such as the Paramount War, have already altered the world order and may continue to sow chaos. He epitomizes the darker aspects of piracy: greed, ruthlessness, and treachery.

Contrasting Luffy’s optimism, Blackbeard’s possible knowledge of the Void Century and Will of D could unveil critical secrets about the One Piece universe. His interactions with influential figures, including Shanks and the Revolutionary Army, may shape alliances and conflicts, rendering him an unpredictable player with hidden intentions.

4) Saint Imu

Saint Imu, the concealed ruler of the World Government, stands as the ultimate antagonist for Luffy and his allies, exercising vast authority to uphold the existing world order. Their enigmatic powers will likely lead to a climactic showdown with Luffy, testing his resolve.

Imu’s deep ties to the Void Century and the World Government may unveil hidden truths, inciting internal discord and the potential for a new world order. Their misguided convictions and tragic past could foster a redemption story through interactions with the Straw Hats. Imu’s narrative is intricately woven with the Ancient Kingdom and the mysterious Will of D, revealing the world’s true essence.

5) Monkey D. Dragon

Monkey D. Dragon (Image via Toei Animation)

In One Piece’s final saga, Dragon aims to dismantle the corrupt World Government and create a new world order, demonstrating his strategic genius and combat capabilities in a large-scale conflict against the Celestial Dragons.

Dragon’s knowledge of the Void Century and World Government secrets could expose longstanding injustices and inspire worldwide reform. An inevitable reunion with Luffy might offer guidance and deeper insights into Luffy’s background and the Will of D, alongside revealing Dragon’s enigmatic history with the Marines.

One Piece characters who likely won’t have a major role in the Final Saga

1) Monkey D. Garp

Monkey D. Garp (Image via Toei Animation)

While Garp’s encounter with Kuzan at Hachinosu hints at a notable presence in the One Piece storyline, several factors may curtail his significance. As an elderly figure, Garp’s health issues could limit his active participation in future events.

The narrative largely centers on the Straw Hat Pirates and the new generation of pirates, which may overshadow Garp’s contributions. Thus, he might serve a more symbolic function, embodying the old protector and mirroring the changing dynamics of the world.

2) Boa Hancock

Despite Hancock’s undeniable power, she may not contend with top-tier fighters like Admirals or Yonko commanders who are likely to be at the forefront of the final saga. Her infatuation with Luffy could impair her reliability, potentially leading to impulsive choices that compromise crucial tasks.

Hancock’s history of isolation as Amazon Lily’s Empress may also restrict her engagement in wider world matters. Her primary motivation centers on her love for Luffy rather than personal ambition, which could limit her influence. The final saga is expected to focus on the Straw Hats, their allies, and key factions, potentially sidelining Hancock’s role.

3) Kaido

Kaido’s decisive defeat by Luffy during the Wano arc signifies a critical moment in the series, likely concluding his significant influence in the pirate realm. With his storyline winding down, attention may shift to emerging threats such as the remaining Yonko and the World Government, diminishing Kaido’s role.

His uncertain fate further limits his future involvement, making a major comeback improbable. Kaido’s arc seems complete, having explored themes of overcoming oppression and fighting for freedom, indicating limited potential for further development.

4) Big Mom

Big Mom’s narrative in Wano concluded with a significant defeat, marking an end to her direct antagonism with the Straw Hats. As the story unfolds, the focus has shifted to new threats and mysteries, including Imu and the secrets of the Void Century, rendering Big Mom’s individual ambitions less pertinent.

With the rise of new characters and alliances, her influence appears overshadowed. Although her backstory was compelling, it has been thoroughly addressed, and introducing fresh characters could provide new narrative depth. Balancing the extensive cast and plot significance necessitates prioritizing newer characters.

5) Charlotte Katakuri

Charlotte Katakuri (Image via Toei Animation)

Katakuri’s character evolution was primarily resolved during the Whole Cake Island arc, making further exploration of his narrative less relevant. While powerful, he is not a central antagonist like the World Government, Blackbeard, or other Yonko that Luffy and the Straw Hats must confront.

After Wano, the Big Mom Pirates face uncertainty and potential internal conflicts, limiting Katakuri’s future significance. With One Piece’s vast ensemble and multiple story arcs, Oda’s focus will likely shift to other pivotal characters. Moreover, Luffy’s growth since their previous encounter would alter their power dynamic, lessening the weight of any prospective rematch.

Final thoughts

In the final saga of One Piece, key figures like Luffy, Shanks, Blackbeard, Imu, and Dragon are set to propel the narrative forward, shaping the ultimate confrontation between freedom and oppression. In contrast, characters such as Garp, Hancock, Kaido, Big Mom, and Katakuri may assume more subdued roles, their influence waning as the story approaches its climax.

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