Why Elbaf Is One Piece’s Best Arc Ever (March 2026 Analysis)
I’ve been following One Piece for over two decades, and I can confidently say that the common consensus within the fandom is that the Elbaf arc is already the greatest of them all. After years of anticipation since the Little Garden arc first teased this legendary land, Oda has delivered something that’s exceeding even the wildest expectations of longtime fans like myself.
One Piece: Why Elbaf Is Breaking Records
| Arc Element | What Makes It Special |
|---|---|
| Character Reveals | Scopper Gaban (Roger’s left-hand), Shamrock Figarland (Shanks’ twin), Rocks D. Xebec appearance |
| Power Debuts | Imu’s demon transformation, Gods’ Knights regeneration abilities, Gaban’s legendary strength |
| Lore Drops | First/Second Worlds concept, Void Century connections, Sun God Nika interpretations |
| Emotional Moments | Robin-Saul reunion, Loki’s tragic backstory, Rocks-Loki connection |
| Scale | Largest country in One Piece, 3-tier world structure, Giants’ 300-year lifespan |
Scopper Gaban: The Mountain Eater Finally Arrives
In chapter 1139 of One Piece, readers finally get a glimpse of Scopper Gaban, whose existence in the Roger Pirates has been acknowledged for a long time but not explored. I was absolutely thrilled when Gaban made his appearance, living up to every bit of hype surrounding the legendary left-hand of the Pirate King.
What makes Gaban’s introduction so impactful is his portrayal as a man rivaling the Pirate King, Gol D. Roger in strength, as well as the right-hand man, Silvers Rayleigh. The Giants themselves confirmed that he’s been living on Elbaf for over 20 years, having married Ripley and had a child named Colon.
His combat prowess remains legendary even in old age. Gaban was only playing with the future Pirate King, but all that was enough for him to force Luffy to Gear 5 and Zoro to his King of Hell. This immediately establishes him as a monster who can still compete with Yonko-level fighters despite his age.
Gaban’s Role in Exposing Gods’ Knights Weaknesses
Most importantly, Gaban will expose the weakness of the Holy Knights’ regeneration powers. During his clash with Saint Sommers, he managed to bypass the seemingly invincible regeneration ability that even Luffy couldn’t counter in Egghead. This breakthrough gives hope that the Straw Hats and Giants can actually defeat these terrifying enemies.
The Gods’ Knights: A Threat Unlike Any Other
The arrival of the Gods’ Knights on Elbaf has raised the stakes to unprecedented levels. Two key members of this vile organization, Shamrock and Gunko, were already present on Elbaf and ready to cause a massive ruckus.
Shamrock Figarland: Shanks’ Evil Twin
One of the most shocking reveals was St. Figarland Shamrock, who has been revealed as Shanks’ older twin brother. This not only confirms Shanks as a Celestial Dragon but validates one of the longest-running fan theories in the series. As the current commander of the Gods’ Knights following his father Garling’s promotion to the Five Elders, Shamrock represents a direct threat to everything the Straw Hats stand for.
The Terrifying Powers of the Gods’ Knights
The Gods’ Knights possess abilities that make them nearly invincible:
- Regeneration: They can instantly heal from any injury
- Teleportation: Through the Abyss, they can appear anywhere
- Unique Devil Fruits: Each member has devastatingly powerful abilities
- Immortality: Granted by Imu, they cannot be killed by conventional means
This immortality is yet another gift from Imu to her loyal knights, making them the perfect enforcers of the World Government’s will.
Imu’s Terrifying Entrance Changes Everything
Perhaps the most game-changing moment in Elbaf was the appearance of Imu, since the greatest villain of the series made a sudden appearance on the island. I never expected to see the true ruler of the world take direct action this early in the Final Saga.
When the possession takes effect, the original personality of the host body is removed as Imu takes full control of it. We witnessed this firsthand when Imu possessed Gunko, demonstrating powers that dwarf even the Five Elders.
Imu’s Overwhelming Powers
What makes Imu so terrifying is the scale of their abilities:
- Demon Transformation: A form resembling classical depictions of Satan
- Mind Control: Can turn Giants into demons against their will
- Supreme King Haki: Knocked out numerous Giants with a single burst
- Abyss Mastery: Creates magical circles that summon weapons and transport people
Their Conqueror’s Haki was also wide-spanning and managed to knock out several Giants, proving why they’ve ruled the world for 800 years.
Loki’s Tragic Past and the Rocks D. Xebec Connection
The revelation of Loki’s backstory has been one of the arc’s emotional highlights. In one of the most messed-up origin stories that Oda has ever written, it was revealed that, purely due to his appearance, Loki was demonized by everyone and was almost killed by his mother when he was just an infant.
The Rocks D. Xebec Reveal
What shocked me most was the legendary Rocks D. Xebec once visited the homeland of the Giants. Young Loki idolized Rocks the same way Luffy looked up to Shanks, desperately wanting to join his crew. However, Rocks refused by Rocks, and the two eventually went on to battle, which the former lost terribly.
This connection adds layers to Loki’s character. He’s not just a villain or a misunderstood prince – he’s someone who carries the will of one of history’s most dangerous pirates. The will of Rocks is still alive and well, and it is Loki who is carrying it to this day.
Revolutionary Lore Reveals About the World
Elbaf has provided more world-building and lore in a few chapters than some entire arcs. The Giants’ unique perspective on history, being only 3 generations removed from the Void Century, gives them knowledge no other race possesses.
The Three Worlds Concept
Jarul revealed the existence of the First and Second Worlds; a concept that fans had never heard of before the start of this arc. This revelation suggests:
- First World: The original era (possibly the Ancient Kingdom)
- Second World: The Void Century period
- Third World: Current era leading to the future
This cyclical nature of history ties directly into the prophetic Elbaf mural that depicts past and future events.
Multiple Interpretations of Sun God Nika
One of the most fascinating reveals is that Sun God Nika isn’t necessarily the same deity for everyone, since an Elbaf legend claims Nika to be the God who brings the destruction of the world. This adds complexity to Luffy’s role as Joyboy’s successor and questions whether his destiny is purely heroic.
Why Fans Consider Elbaf the Best Arc in One Piece?
After analyzing fan reactions and discussions across the community, several factors make Elbaf stand out:
1. Payoff for Long-Term Readers
Elbaf was first mentioned over 20 years ago in the Little Garden arc. For readers who’ve been following since then, seeing Usopp finally reach the land of warriors and Robin reunite with Saul provides emotional payoff that newer arcs can’t match.
2. Perfect Pacing
Unlike some recent arcs that felt rushed or dragged, Elbaf strikes the perfect balance. Each chapter delivers significant reveals while maintaining mystery and building tension.
3. Character Development for the Straw Hats
The Elbaf Arc is one of the best arcs for the Straw Hats as individuals in a long time. We’re seeing:
- Usopp achieving his dream of visiting the warrior’s land
- Robin’s emotional reunion with Saul
- Franky exploring the Treasure Tree Adam
- Nami showcasing leadership during crisis
- Luffy confronting god-tier opponents
4. Legendary Character Introductions
The arc has introduced or revealed:
- Scopper Gaban (after decades of theories)
- Shamrock Figarland (Shanks’ twin)
- Rocks D. Xebec (first proper appearance)
- Imu (in action, not just silhouette)
- Multiple Gods’ Knights members
5. Stakes That Matter
With Imu personally involved and the Gods’ Knights threatening to kidnap Giant children, the stakes feel more personal and immediate than generic “save the world” plots.
The Arc’s Impact on the Final Saga
Elbaf isn’t just a great standalone arc – it’s setting up the entire endgame of One Piece. Gaban will reveal the location of the final Road Poneglyph, finally giving Luffy everything needed to reach Laugh Tale.
The revelations about:
- The cyclical nature of history
- Multiple interpretations of ancient prophecies
- The true power of the World Government
- Connections between legendary pirates
All of these elements are positioning Elbaf as the crucial bridge between the adventure portion of One Piece and the final war for the world’s future.
Comparing Elbaf to Other Legendary Arcs
When I compare Elbaf to other beloved arcs like Marineford, Water 7, or Wano, several factors make it stand out:
Emotional Weight: While Marineford had Ace’s death, Elbaf has multiple emotional threads – Robin/Saul, Loki’s tragedy, Usopp’s dream fulfillment.
Mystery Reveals: Water 7 revealed CP9, but Elbaf is answering questions we’ve had for 20+ years.
Scale: Even Wano, with its massive cast, feels smaller than Elbaf’s three-tier world and cosmic implications.
Villain Power: No previous arc has featured the series’ final boss (Imu) taking direct action.
What’s Still to Come
Despite all these incredible moments, we’re likely not even halfway through the arc! Still to come:
- The full Loki/Harald flashback
- The final Road Poneglyph location
- The Straw Hats vs Gods’ Knights battles
- Potential appearances by Shanks or Blackbeard
- More Void Century revelations
- The fate of the Giant nation
Conclusion: A New Gold Standard
After following One Piece for over two decades, I can say without hesitation that Elbaf is shaping up to be the series’ magnum opus. It’s delivering on promises made throughout the entire series while introducing new mysteries that enhance rather than complicate the story.
The combination of legendary character reveals (Gaban, Rocks, Imu in action), emotional character moments (Robin/Saul, Loki’s past), and world-shaking lore drops (Three Worlds, multiple Nikas) creates an arc that satisfies on every level.
When it aired, Egghead was widely regarded as the best arc following the time skip. However, ever since it started in Chapter 1126, the common consensus within the fandom is that the Elbaf arc is already the greatest of them all.
With Oda continuing to raise the stakes and deliver shocking revelations with each chapter, Elbaf isn’t just the best arc ever – it’s redefining what a One Piece arc can be. For both longtime fans and newcomers, this is the arc that proves why One Piece remains the king of manga after 25+ years.
The journey to Laugh Tale is accelerating, and if Elbaf is any indication, the best is yet to come!
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Elbaf arc start?
The Elbaf arc officially began in One Piece Chapter 1126, following the conclusion of the Egghead Island arc.
Is Scopper Gaban stronger than current Luffy?
While aged, Gaban forced Luffy into Gear 5 during their friendly spar, suggesting he remains at or near Yonko level despite being past his prime.
Who is stronger: Shamrock or Shanks?
This hasn’t been confirmed yet, but as Shanks’ twin and commander of the Gods’ Knights, Shamrock likely possesses comparable strength.
Will Loki join the Straw Hats?
While Loki shares parallels with Luffy and may become an ally, his role as Elbaf’s prince and carrier of Rocks’ will suggests a different destiny.
How long will the Elbaf arc last?
Based on Oda’s pacing and the amount of content to cover, fans estimate Elbaf could run for 80-100+ chapters, making it potentially longer than Wano.
Is this really the best One Piece arc?
While subjective, the overwhelming fan consensus, incredible reveals, and perfect execution have many considering it the series’ peak achievement so far.