The beloved anime series One Piece is set to revisit its Fishman Island Arc, which has garnered a reputation for being one of the weakest segments in the show’s extensive 1,100-plus episode history. As the franchise prepares to release a remastered version, set to condense the original 62 episodes down to 21, it’s clear that many fans believe this arc requires significant improvements.
The Stakes Are Low Against Lackluster Villains
One of the most significant issues with the Fishman Island Arc is the noticeable lack of tension throughout the storyline. From the outset, it’s evident that the primary antagonist, Hordy Jones, and his gang pose little threat to the upgraded Straw Hat Pirates. After two years of intense training, the Straw Hats easily outmatch their foes. Although there are moments of apparent tension—particularly when Hordy gains an advantage over Luffy due to the limitations of his Devil Fruit powers in water—these instances feel more like minor inconveniences than genuine threats. Ultimately, the battles in this arc stand out as some of the easiest faced by the crew.
Questionable Humor and Character Development
Another flaw is the portrayal of Sanji, which often veers into uncomfortable territory for comedic effect. In a notable instance, Sanji is overwhelmed by the beauty of the mermaids, leading to excessive nosebleeds—a common anime trope. Unfortunately, this gag escalates to the point where he suffers severe blood loss and nearly dies, undermining the narrative’s integrity with what many consider a farcical plotline.
An Overly Lengthy Backstory
The character Jimbei brings depth to the arc, yet his backstory concerning the Fishmen’s oppression by the Celestial Dragons feels overly extended. While the story has its merits, its execution lacks complexity and drags on unnecessarily. Many viewers find themselves anticipating the conclusion long before it arrives. The hope for the remastered version is that it will streamline this narrative, enhancing the overall pacing.
The Problematic Character of Shirahoshi
Princess Shirahoshi, while pivotal to the plot, is another point of contention. Her frequent bouts of crying and complaint detract from the story, making her one of the more irritating characters in the One Piece universe. Although she is essential to the overarching narrative, her portrayal often feels immature, which can be grating for viewers. The remaster offers a chance to minimize her less appealing traits and focus on her importance within the story.
Conclusion
Despite its shortcomings, the Fishman Island Arc remains a significant part of the One Piece narrative. As the remaster approaches its release on Crunchyroll on November 3rd, fans are left wondering if the new version can effectively address the criticisms that have plagued this arc. While the anticipation for improvements is palpable, many viewers, myself included, will still tune in to witness the changes, albeit with the hope that it will be a more rewarding experience than the original.
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