Top 20 Outstanding Episodes from One Piece's Wano Arc

The narrative of One Piece's Wano Arc began with a dramatic journey into the past, taking readers on an emotional rollercoaster. Oden, after exploring the world with Whitebeard and Roger, valiantly fought to protect Wano, only to be tragically killed by Kaido, who then established a brutal rule over the country.

In the present, the Straw Hat Pirates and their allies launched an assault on Onigashima, the headquarters of the Beasts Pirates. A fierce conflict erupted as Kaido joined forces with Big Mom, but ultimately Luffy and his companions emerged victorious. Their triumph liberated Wano from oppression, setting off a chain of unexpected events that reverberated throughout the world.

Wano's top 20 episodes, ranked as of One Piece 1086

The Wano arc spanned a remarkable 193 episodes, marking it as the longest arc in the One Piece anime adaptation to date. Despite the demanding weekly schedule, each episode upheld a standard of quality akin to that of a movie, underscoring the magnificence of Wano.

20) Episode 978 - The Worst Generation Charges in! The Battle of the Stormy Sea

One Piece anime episode 978 (Image via Toei Animation)

The Straw Hat Pirates and their allies neared Onigashima, encountering the vanguard of the Beasts Pirates that resulted in a naval battle. The anime delved into an extended battle, with a particular focus on Luffy, Kid, and Law as they engaged in a competitive display of their Devil Fruit abilities to defeat the enemy. The episode's animation skillfully highlighted their abilities with fluid and cinematic scenes.

19) Episode 892 - The Land of Wano! To the Samurai Country Where Cherry Blossoms Flutter

One Piece anime epiode 892 (Image via Toei Animation)

The Straw Hats aimed to infiltrate Wano by disguising themselves as natives. Zoro, pretending to be a ronin, adopted traditional samurai attire and went by the name "Zorojuro".

Remembering Kinemon's warning to avoid drawing attention, Zoro willingly allowed himself to be arrested despite being falsely accused of murder. However, he quickly realized that the magistrate who had sentenced him was the actual perpetrator.

18) Episode 982 - Kaido's Trump Card! The Tobi Roppo Appear

Zoro humorously apologized to Kinemon before swiftly defeating the magistrate and his men. It was a dramatic beginning to the Wano Arc, made even more memorable by the stunning portrayal of the Feudal Japan-inspired country in the episode.

Episode 982 of the One Piece anime (Image via Toei Animation)

Without knowledge of the Ninja-Pirate-Mink-Samurai Alliance's presence in Onigashima, the Beasts Pirates held a celebration. The dramatic Queen belted out a funky tune, while Scratchman Apoo took on the role of DJ.

17) Episode 934 - A Big Turnover! The Three-Sword Style Overcomes Danger

Megumi Ishitani’s brilliant direction transformed this unassuming scene into a captivating sequence, evoking the frenetic atmosphere of a rave. Sparkling beneath the disco lights, Queen captivated his audience with a wild dance, reaching the pinnacle of grotesque yet entertaining.

In episode 934 of the One Piece anime (Image via Toei Animation)

In order to shield Hiyori and Toko from Killer, who had been ordered by Orochi to kill them as part of his forced labor, Zoro faced off against the fellow Worst Generation Supernova.

Gyukimaru's intervention led to Zoro getting injured by Killer, but the green-haired swordsman still demonstrated his superiority over his enemy. Despite Killer's attempt to reclaim his weapon, Zoro managed to overpower him with his immense strength. With one of his three swords missing, Zoro utilized Killer's blade in its place and executed a lethal strike to defeat him. The dramatic animation effectively highlighted Zoro's formidable strength.

16) Episode 957 - Big News! An Incident That Will Affect the Seven Warlords

One Piece anime episode 957 (Image via Toei Animation)

Shifting briefly from the events in Wano, this episode highlighted the major news from the outside world, particularly the abolishment of the Seven Warlords. Directed by Megumi Ishitani, the episode boasted a dreamlike visual quality, with each Warlord receiving a stunning individual shot and flawless transitions between scenes that were mesmerizing in their own right.

15) Episode 1000 - Overwhelming Strength! The Straw Hats Come Together

One Piece anime episode 1000 (Image via Toei Animation)

The Straw Hat Pirates convened on the castle's live floor, prepared to launch their assault on Onigashima. This milestone episode, marking the One Piece anime's thousandth installment, was a powerful and emotional moment for devoted fans.

In celebration of this achievement, an updated version of the iconic We Are! served as the opening theme. The episode also featured clips of each Straw Hat's backstory, their initial encounter with Luffy, and the unforgettable adventures they shared together.

14) Episode 1017- A Barrage of Powerful Techniques! The Worst Generation's Fierce Attacks

One Piece anime episode 1017 (Image via Toei Animation)

Determined to take down the Emperors, the strongest rookies of the Worst Generation - Luffy, Zoro, Law, Kid, and Killer - bravely confronted Kaido and Big Mom in a no-holds-barred battle.

In an impressive display of strength, Zoro used his Haki-enhanced attack, the Flying Dragon Blaze, to cut through Kaido's Boro Breath and threaten the Emperor. Even Big Mom warned Kaido of the impending danger, forcing him to dodge to avoid serious injury.

13) Episode 940 - Zoro's Fury! The Truth About the Smile

The display of Zoro's formidable strength, enough to challenge an Emperor, was truly impressive, and the subsequent events in the episode were equally exciting. The rookies of the Worst Generation demonstrated their bravery, with Luffy in particular giving his all to unleash a powerful Kong Gatling attack against Kaido.

In episode 940 of the One Piece anime (Image via Toei Animation), Yasuie made a selfless sacrifice to deceive Orochi and prevent him from discovering the alliance's true intentions. As a true Shimotsuki, he bravely faced his death with dignity, in stark contrast to Orochi's cowardly and despicable behavior.

12) Episode 1046 - Taking a Chance! The Two Arms Go into Battle

As Yasuie approached his final moments, he maintained a smile and continued to embody Ebisu Town’s beloved jester, Tonoyasu, for one last time. The heartbreaking scene unfolded as the town’s residents could not help but weep, yet the SMILE effect compelled them to burst into laughter instead.

The image above is from One Piece anime episode 1046, created by Toei Animation.

Following the intense battle with Kaido and Big Mom, Zoro received an injection of Minks medicine. The medication provided instant healing, but came with the trade-off of experiencing double the pain later on.

As Zoro recuperated and engaged in battle with King, Kaido's right-hand man, Sanji continued his showdown with Queen. Much to the delight of fans, the animation magnificently depicted the clash, elevating the scene even further compared to the original manga.

11) Episode 1061- The Strike of an Ifrit! Sanji vs. Queen

In the latest episode of One Piece, episode 1061, the intense battle between Sanji and Queen reaches its climax. After Queen harms the geisha, Sanji's fury unleashes the full power of his genetically enhanced body. With the devastating Ifrit Jambe, he delivers a powerful blow to Queen, sending him soaring off Onigashima. (Image via Toei Animation)

Before succumbing to his injuries and exhaustion, Sanji gallantly assisted Some. In this moment, Sanji accepted his Vinsmoke lineage, grappling with the fear of inheriting his family's cold-hearted nature. Reluctantly, he had to embrace his genetic makeup as it began to manifest.

Following a stunning display of Ifrit Jambe's power through breathtaking animation, the episode utilized a warm color scheme to portray Sanji's resolution of his internal struggle and his reunion with the Straw Hats, symbolically aided by his mentor Zeff.

10) Episode 1051 - A Legend All Over Again! Luffy's Fist Roars in the Sky

One Piece anime episode 1051 (Image va Toei Animation)

The episode made history as it showcased Yamato and Momonosuke’s attempts to rescue Onigashima, as well as Inu and Neko’s crucial attacks on their enemies. However, it was Luffy’s remarkable rise to power that truly stood out. His battle with Kaido unleashed a devastating display of Haki that literally split the skies. Gone was the novice from East Blue - Luffy had transformed into a fighter on par with the Emperors, making their clash a celestial event.

9) Episode 1066 - Here Comes Main Act! Powerful Techniques of Shockwave and Magnetism

One Piece anime episode 1066 (Image via Toei Animation)

Big Mom had the advantage over Trafalgar Law and Eustass Kid, but she underestimated them. That proved to be a fatal error, as Law and Kid pushed themselves to their limits and unleashed incredible techniques with their Awakened Devil Fruits.

Taking advantage of their teamwork, the two were able to land multiple powerful blows on Big Mom. Despite being injured, she remained conscious and determined. However, the relentless attacks eventually forced her to the edge, and she ultimately fell into a erupting volcano deep underground.

8) Episode 974 - Oden Wouldn't Be Oden If It Wasn't Boiled

Henry Thurlow's masterful direction makes this episode the ultimate climax of the conflict. Thurlow skillfully translates the manga, enhancing Kid and Law's dynamic actions while also adding some impressive original anime scenes to the adaptation.

The impact of Kozuki Oden's influence can be seen throughout Wano, with his death marking a pivotal moment in the arc. Condemned to die by Kaido and Orochi, Oden defiantly issued a challenge, ultimately emerging victorious.

With unwavering strength and determination, Oden endured for more than an hour, bearing the weight of the entire Red Scabbards as he was submerged in boiling oil. Despite Kaido breaking his promise and ruthlessly ending the lives of the samurai, Oden remained brave and fearless, exuding his charismatic spirit until his final moments. He maintained his trademark demeanor and faced his fate with a smile, leaving behind a legendary legacy.

7) Episode 1071 - Luffy's Peak - Attained! Gear Five

One Piece anime episode 1071 (Image via Toei Animation)

The introduction of Luffy’s iconic Gear 5 transformation was truly unforgettable. The scene's build-up was amazing, with Zunesha hinting at Luffy’s connection to Joy Boy and the Five Elders revealing the true nature of the Human-Human Fruit, Model Nika, previously known as the Gom-Gom Fruit. Thanks to his Awakened Devil Fruit powers, Luffy was able to fight using his own imagination. With a playful smile, the young pirate showcased incredible techniques that left everyone, including Kaido, astonished.

The full moon cast a silhouette behind Luffy as he explored his newly acquired skills, while the animation vividly portrayed his exaggerated movements and responses. Each frame carried a strong impact, effectively capturing Luffy’s boundless sense of playfulness.

6) Episode 1027 - Defend Luffy! Zoro and Law's Sword Technique

In episode 1027 of the One Piece anime (Image via Toei Animation), Kaido and Big Mom joined forces to launch a devastating attack. Zoro bravely blocked the powerful strike, shielding the other Supernovas, but sustained injuries in the process. Kaido then delivered a crushing blow that knocked out Luffy and easily overpowered Law, who had attempted to intervene.

Faced with a dire situation, Zoro summoned his remaining strength to unleash his Nine Sword Style: Ashura and engage in a fierce battle with Kaido. In a breathtaking display of skill, the green-haired swordsman managed to break through Kaido’s defense, causing a significant wound to the powerful opponent’s chest.

Despite being left with a permanent scar, Kaido withstood the injury. After retaliating against Zoro and Law, Luffy intervened, prepared for another confrontation. The intense and commanding visuals of Zoro and Kaido’s struggle beautifully captured the sheer power of the moment.

5) Episode 965 - Crossing Blades! Roger and Whitebeard!

One Piece anime episode 965 (Image via Toei Animation)

Fans have always yearned to see the legendary figures of the past face off in battle, and Oden’s flashback finally made this dream a reality. Episode 965, in particular, featured the epic showdown between Roger and Whitebeard.

With their weapons infused with Advanced Conqueror’s Haki, the two renowned pirates collided, releasing enough force to split the sky and scatter the area. But in keeping with the deep respect between Roger and Whitebeard, the battle quickly took on a more amicable tone.

4) Episode 968 - The King of the Pirates is Born! Arriving at the Last Island!

One Piece anime episode 968 (Image via Toei Animation)

Anticipating Luffy and his companions discovering the One Piece, another pirate crew had already accomplished this incredible feat. After traversing the Grand Line, the Roger Pirates reached the last island. When they laid eyes on the legendary One Piece treasure, Roger and his crew couldn't help but burst into laughter. They named the island "Laugh Tale," and Roger's reputation as the "Pirate King" quickly spread worldwide.

The soundtrack Memories, with its historic theme, provided the perfect backdrop for the revelation of Laugh Tale, giving fans goosebumps. As the grand adventure comes to a close after decades, a nostalgic yet soothing feeling washes over the audience. The next group to set foot on Laugh Tale will be none other than the Straw Hats.

3) Episode 1062 - The Three-Sword Style of the Supreme King! Zoro vs. King

In the latest episode 1062 of One Piece anime (Image via Toei Animation), viewers were treated to a thrilling clash between Zoro and King as they fought fiercely to uphold their captains' honor. This episode, which centers on the intense battle between the two right-hand men, has been widely acclaimed as one of the standout moments in the entire arc.

After recalling his history with Kaido, King launched an attack. Despite using a speed-boosted move and summoning a massive fire dragon with his unique Lunarian flames, he was unable to land a hit.

Infused with Advanced Conqueror’s Haki, Zoro effortlessly sliced through King’s defenses and defeated him. A defeated King fell to the ground like a fallen angel, while a victorious Zoro vowed to overcome any challenge for Luffy's sake.

2) Episode 1076 - The World That Luffy Wants

The entire scene was a stunning visual spectacle, characterized by enchanting animation. When Zoro declared himself as the "King of Hell," it was a genuine work of art, as the swordsman utilized his Haki to inscribe his name in the air, and the "To Be Continued" screen showcased the iconic letter "Z."

In the latest episode 1076 of the One Piece anime (Image via Toei Animation), the epic showdown between Kaido and Luffy reached its conclusion with both unleashing their most powerful moves. In a dramatic clash, Luffy’s Bajrang Gun emerged victorious over Kaido’s Rising Dragon: Flame Bagua, securing the young pirate an unexpected triumph over the Emperor.

As Kaido lost consciousness, he briefly relived his past in a powerful sequence. The significance of the numerous lanterns ascending from the lively Flower Capital to the sky was unmatched.

The citizens entrusted their wishes to the lanterns and released them into the sky. In a breathtaking moment, the lanterns reached Luffy, the man who had brought freedom to Wano, freeing the country from Kaido's oppressive rule.

1) Episode 1015 - Straw Hat Luffy! The Man Who Will Become the King of the Pirates

One Piece anime episode 1015 (Image via Toei Animation)

This episode expertly blends seriousness and humor, staying true to One Piece's signature style. Directed by Megumi Ishitani, the installment marks the beginning of the clash between the Worst Generation's top fighters and the Emperors. As Yamato reads Oden's journal, which foretells the rise of the next generation led by Luffy, Zoro, Law, Kid, and Killer stand on Onigashima's Rooftop, prepared to take on Kaido and Big Mom.

When Ace revealed Luffy's true dream, Yamato drew a parallel to Roger's ambitious goal. Ishitani's creative direction elevated the scene, turning it into a suggestive sequence that captures a feeling of limitless freedom.

Adding to the impact, Luffy demonstrated his utmost confidence, boldly declaring himself as the future Pirate King to Kaido and Big Mom as he nonchalantly passed by them to check on Kinemon and the other Scabbards.

Keep up with One Piece manga, anime, and live-action as 2023 progresses.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan, I am thrilled to see that the Wano Arc of One Piece has been adapted into an anime. The Wano Arc is one of the most popular arcs in the One Piece manga, and I have been eagerly waiting for its anime adaptation. Toei Animation has done an incredible job in bringing the Wano Arc to life, and I am particularly impressed with the quality of the animation. The battle scenes are especially well-animated, and the character designs are spot-on.

Overall, I am very happy with the anime adaptation of the Wano Arc. Toei Animation has done an excellent job in capturing the spirit of the manga, and I am excited to see how the rest of the arc plays out.

One Piece Manga - Anime One Piece is an incredible adventure-filled series that has captivated its fans for over two decades. It follows the journey of Monkey D. Luffy and his pirate crew, the Straw Hat Pirates, as they search for the ultimate treasure, the One Piece, in order to become the King of the Pirates. With its compelling storyline, diverse and lovable characters, epic battles, and themes of friendship and determination, One Piece has created a vast and immersive world that keeps fans eagerly anticipating each new chapter or episode. It is a timeless masterpiece that continues to redefine the boundaries of the shonen genre, making it a must-watch or read for any anime or manga enthusiast.