5 One Piece characters who'll play a major role in the series' final saga (& 5 more who likely won't have a huge impact)

As One Piece approaches its epic conclusion, the spotlight intensifies on characters key to shaping the series final saga. Some specific characters, such as the Monkey D. Luffy and Saint Imu, are fixed for pivotal roles in the ultimate battles and revelations.

Conversely, with the narrowing of the story focus, the influence of some notable characters like Kaido and Boa Hancock might be lessening. This article lists the name of the characters that are going to have a major role and those that will disappear in a more second-rate role and will shed some light on the unresolved issues 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 central protagonist, drives the narrative with his quest to become the King of the Pirates by finding the One Piece. Embodying freedom and determination, he challenges oppressive systems and inspires others to chase their dreams. His charisma unites a diverse crew, showcasing the power of friendship and teamwork.

Luffy disrupts the status quo, confronting corrupt organizations and questioning societal norms. As he now moves to the Elbaf arc, he may uncover the Void Century's mysteries and may continue Gol D. Roger's legacy, not just for personal ambition but to usher in a new era. His journey sparks hope and change, empowering the oppressed and leaving a lasting impact.

2) Shanks

Shanks’ role in One Piece remains a mystery, with several intriguing theories about his potential impact on the saga. He might be protecting the Will of D, aiding Luffy’s journey to Laugh Tale. Shanks could also be balancing the World Government’s power, acting as a mediator.

His connection to Roger hint at possible knowledge to discovering the One Piece. He might serve as Luffy’s final test or reveal crucial secrets about the Void Century or Ancient Weapons. Alternatively, Shanks could face a tragic fate or be a wild card with hidden motives.

3) Blackbeard

Blackbeard stands as Luffy's ultimate rival, his dark ambitions and dual Devil Fruits marking him as a significant threat. His disruptive actions, like the Paramount War, have already reshaped the world order and may continue to cause chaos. Representing the darker side of piracy: greed, ruthlessness, and betrayal.

He contrasts sharply with Luffy's idealism. Blackbeard’s possible knowledge of the Void Century and the Will of D could reveal crucial secrets about the One Piece world. His interactions with major figures like Shanks and the Revolutionary Army may shape alliances and conflicts, making him an unpredictable wildcard with hidden agendas.

4) Saint Imu

Imu, the secret ruler of the World Government, represents the ultimate antagonist for Luffy and his crew, wielding immense authority and aiming to protect the world order from perceived chaos. Their immortality and enigmatic powers will likely lead to a climactic confrontation with Luffy, testing his resolve.

Imu’s deep connection to the Void Century and the World Government could unravel hidden truths, sparking internal conflicts and a potential new world order. Their misguided beliefs and tragic past may prompt a redemption arc through their interactions with the Straw Hats. Imu’s story is intricately linked to the Ancient Kingdom and the mysterious Will of D, revealing the world’s true nature.

5) Monkey D. Dragon

Monkey D. Dragon (Image via Toei Animation)

In the final saga of One Piece, Dragon's ultimate goal is to overthrow the corrupt World Government and establish a new world order, showcasing his strategic brilliance and combat prowess in a full-scale war against the Celestial Dragons.

Dragon's probable knowledge of the Void Century and the World Government’s secrets could expose long-standing injustices and inspire global change. An inevitable reunion with Luffy might offer guidance and deeper insights into Luffy's past and the Will of D, while also revealing Dragon's mysterious past 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 Monkey D. Garp's encounter with Kuzan at Hachinosu suggests a notable role in the One Piece saga, several factors may limit his significance. As an elderly man, Garp's declining health could restrict his active involvement in the unfolding events.

The series predominantly focuses on the Straw Hat Pirates and the new generation of pirates, which might overshadow Garp's role. Additionally, Garp's meeting with Kuzan may simply highlight their relationship without necessarily indicating a major future involvement.

Instead, Garp may serve a symbolic role, representing the old guardian and reflecting the evolving dynamics of the world.

2) Boa Hancock

While Boa Hancock is undoubtedly powerful, she may not match the top-tier fighters like the Admirals or Yonko commanders expected to be central in the final saga. Her infatuation with Luffy could undermine her reliability, leading to impulsive decisions that jeopardize crucial missions.

Hancock's history of isolationism as Amazon Lily’s Empress may also limit her involvement in broader world events. Her primary motivation is her love for Luffy rather than personal ambition, which might restrict her impact. Additionally, the final saga will likely focus on the Straw Hats, their allies, and major factions, potentially sidelining Hancock’s role.

3) Kaido

Kaido's decisive defeat by Luffy in the Wano arc represents a pivotal moment in the series, potentially marking the end of his significant influence in the pirate world. With his major arc concluded, the story is likely to shift focus to emerging threats like the remaining Yonko and the World Government, diminishing Kaido's relevance.

His unknown status further restricts his role, making a major return unlikely. Kaido's narrative appears complete, having explored themes of overcoming oppression and fighting for freedom, which suggests limited potential for further development or involvement in future storylines.

4) Big Mom

Big Mom’s narrative arc in Wano concluded with a decisive defeat, marking a clear end to her direct antagonism toward the Straw Hats. As the story progresses, the focus has shifted to new threats and mysteries, including Imu and the secrets of the Void Century, making Big Mom’s personal ambitions seem less relevant.

The power dynamics have escalated with the emergence of new characters and alliances that overshadow her influence. While her backstory was compelling, it has been thoroughly explored, and introducing fresh characters and themes could offer new narrative depth. Balancing the extensive cast and plot significance makes focusing on newer characters practical.

5) Charlotte Katakuri

Charlotte Katakuri (Image via Toei Animation)

Katakuri's character development and conflict resolution were largely addressed during the Whole Cake Island arc, making further exploration of his story less relevant. Although powerful, he is not a central antagonist like the World Government, Blackbeard, or other Yonko that Luffy and the Straw Hats must confront.

Following Wano, the Big Mom Pirates face uncertainty and potential internal strife, limiting Katakuri's future impact. With One Piece's extensive cast and numerous storylines, Oda's focus will shift to other characters. Moreover, Luffy's growth since their fight would alter their power dynamic, diminishing the significance of any potential rematch.

Final thoughts

In the final saga of One Piece, key players like Luffy, Shanks, Blackbeard, Imu, and Dragon are set to drive the narrative forward, shaping the ultimate clash between freedom and tyranny. Meanwhile, characters such as Garp, Hancock, Kaido, Big Mom, and Katakuri may play more subdued roles, their influence fading as the story reaches its climax.