25 Most Memorable One Piece Character Introductions

Hey everyone today I’ll be discussing the most memorable one piece character introductions as of yet. This isn’t a ranking of who the MVP is or who has the most aura. I will be taking everything into consideration: humor, mystery, build up, atmosphere, etc. Now there isn’t an exact data table or a scoring system. Simply just vibes. There’s plenty of solid picks but here are mine!

Breakdown of the 25 Most Memorable One Piece Character Introductions

Honorable Mention

Tonjit

I want to squeeze him into the top 25 One Piece character introductions, but all he has going for him is the humor so I’ll give him this mention. For those that may not remember, Tonjit, from Long Ring Long Land, wanted to make the worlds longest stilts and went on to climb them. However, he completely forgot he was scared of heights and could not climb down.

So, for 10 whole years he was stuck walking the island on stilts, eating long apples off trees, and eventually being left behind by his tribe. Then Monkey D. Luffy and company accidentally knocked his stilts down. Absolute ridiculousness from Tonjit and the fact that he continued on as if he wasn’t on stilts for 10 years is hilarious. 

25. Raizo of the Mist

Starting off the real list is Raizo. Raizo first appeared in One Piece chapter 817 and episode 768. The entire build up to his reveal is what has me favor Raizo over other characters. The Mink Tribe feigned their knowledge of Raizo’s location even though their lives were in danger.

The actual introduction of Raizo was somewhat heartfelt with Momonosuke and Kinemon but also quite comedic with Luffy, Usopp and Chopper and their love for ninjas. Overall, a solid character introduction. 

24. Laboon

Up next is Laboon the giant headbutting whale. Laboons debut in one piece was chapter 102 and episode 62. As the Straw Hats were entering the Grand Line, they get swallowed up by Laboon. Later on the crew learns why he keeps headbutting the Red Line and Luffy promises to sail back around just like the Rumbar Pirates once promised him.

What makes this a memorable moment in One Piece is Laboon is the very first character introduced in the Grand Line. One day, the Straw Hats will sail back around and this time with Brook, who was a member of the Rumbar Pirates years ago. I love Laboon, you love Laboon, and that’s why he is on the list as one of the best One Piece character introductions. 

23. Galley-La Company

Having all of Galley-La Company on the list might be an odd but being odd is One Piece’s greatest strength. Galley La Company, aka Rob Lucci, Kaku, Kalifa, Paulie and Iceberg, were introduced in One Piece chapter 323 and episode 230. Luffy, Usopp and Nami visited the company to get their ship repaired and met the ship wrights in awesome fashion.

After a horrible encounter with the Big Helmet Pirates, The Galley-La company whooped them up with ease. Even though they were shipwrights, they could hold their own. They just had this coolness about them. On top of that, the whole Kaku and Usopp nose joke was hilarious.  

22. Don Krieg

Next up is the strongest man in the East Blue, Don Krieg. Krieg was first introduced in One Piece chapter 45 and episode 21. I know what you guys are thinking, “Don Krieg? This guy got one shot and Arlong is the strongest in the East Blue!” I get what happens after his introduction but the story definitely hyped Krieg up to have a crazy aura and honestly he did at his introduction.

After all, he did have an enormous army and even managed to make it to the Grand Line. Obviously, his intro gets overshadowed literally right after by another memorable introduction, but don’t downplay the Don. 

21. Enel

Zapping his way onto the list is Sky God Enel from Skypeia. Enel was first introduced in one piece chapter 254 and episode 167. Since the beginning of the Skypeia Arc, Enel had a lot of mystery and aura surrounding him. Right off the bat, you could tell the guy was going to be very strong. Everyone was afraid of even saying his name. So, it makes sense that his reveal in One Piece would be on this list. 

20. Smoker

Following Enel’s entry is Smoker. Smoker, first introduced in One Piece chapter 97 and episode 48, is the very first antagonist where it seemed impossible for Straw Hat Luffy to defeat. And it was true. Since Smoker had a logia fruit, the plume plume fruit, it made him intangible to Luffy’s punches and kicks. Yeah, his reputation now is pretty low among fans, but I remember back then there were high hopes for him. Smoker deserves a spot on this list. 

19. Prince Loki

From one of the earliest introductions to the latest now is Prince Loki from Elbaph. Loki was introduced to One Piece in chapter 1130 and episode 1160. Loki has been teased for years all the way back from the Whole Cake Island Arc. Finally, after some time, Luffy meets the strongest man from Elbaph, who is chained up to a giant tree.

The first panel of Loki erupted all over social media and everyone loved it. Many of them were even comparing it to Roronoa Zoro when he was first introduced. Overall, a very memorable character as far as introductions go in One Piece. 

18. Franky

Finally, a Straw Hat has made their first appearance on this list. Cyborg Frank, also known as Cutty Flam, first appeared in One Piece chapter 329 and episode 233. At the beginning of Water 7, many were led to believe that Franky was going to play a major antagonist role. This is mostly because of his introduction and confrontation of the crews’ stolen money with the Straw Hat’s sniper, Usopp.

Franky and his family beat up the sniper, setting up a future showdown between him and Straw Hat Luffy. I think it was interesting how everyone was theorizing who would be the Straw Hat’s shipwright, but none would believe it would turn out to be Franky. 

17. Vinsmoke Sanji

Serving up the next spot is Vinsmoke Sanji, the black legged chef. First introduced in One Piece chapter 43 and episode 20, Sanji’s introduction was so smooth and elegant like a nice bottle of wine. After a Marine officer by the name of Fullbody was causing a commotion at the Baratie, Sanji delivered him a full course blow of kicks. It was very satisfying seeing Fullbody, a character who no one likes, get whooped. It was one of the smoothest character introductions. Makes sense to make it like that for Sanji, one of the smoothest guys.  

16. Edward Newgate (Whitebeard)

Emperors of the One Piece world are known to be very strong, and of course the strongest of them all is on this list. In one piece chapter 234 and episode 151, Whitebeard is first introduced to fans during the Jaya Arc. Here, we see him talking with Rockstar, one of Shank’s crewmate. As the episode comes to an end, the camera pans and finally shows Whitebeard.

At first, many might think no way this guy is that strong. I was also a bit perplexed considering Whitebeard’s sickly appearance. The strongest man was hooked up to oxygen tanks and monitors. Honestly, it gave him a lot of aura after his brief but friendly clash with Shanks just time after after this. Anyways, it makes perfect sense for a Yonko to have one the best character introductions. 

15. Supernovas

If you thought Galley-La Company was the only group here then you were wrong. During one piece chapter 498 and episode 392, Sabaody Archipelago was introduced to some of the worst (or best if you’re Monkey D. Luffy) rookie pirates of that era. To be labeled a supernova, a pirate would have to be worth 100,000,000 berry by the time they reach Sabaody in their first year.

The ones who managed to reach that are Capone Bege, Jewelry Bonney, Basil Hawkins, Scratchmen Apoo, Eustass Kidd, X Drake, Urouge, Killer, Trafalgar Law, Roronoa Zoro and, of course, Monkey D. Luffy. It was sick. Every one of these character introductions got a quick little bounty headshot, AND they were all on Sabaody at the same time. Some were to become allies while others rivals and some even villains. It’s really cool to look back at how far each Supenova have come since then. 

14. Big Mom (Charlotte Linlin)

Next up is the big girl known as Big Mom. Her introduction came in during One Piece chapter 651 and episode 571. After the clash between Monkey D. Luffy and Hody Jones, Luffy decided to place Fish-Man Island under the protection of the Straw Hat Pirates. Jinbe, a previous Warlod of the Sea, advised Luffy to not do that as this would anger one of the four Yonko, Big Mom. Soon after, she gives the island a call to find out when her candy will be shipped out.

However, her call was answered by Luffy, who proudly claimed Fish-Man Island under his name and that he will become King of the Pirates. This angered Charlotte Linlin who warned Luffy and his friends of what’s to come. The whole introduction was a bit funny but also frightening. We knew the powers of a Yonko after the events of Marineford, yet Luffy did not care. 

13. Roronoa Zoro

If Loki is on this list then it makes sense to feature the OG chained up One Piece character. Introduced in One Piece chapter 4 and episode 1, Roronoa Zoro is seen held captive by the marines at Shellstown, tied to a post. I mean come on, its the right hand man of the future Pirate King. At this point, the man wasn’t even a pirate, he was a pirate hunter. But due to the Marines mistreating a young girl, Rika, Zoro beats them up. As a result, Zoro gets tied up to the post. The OG aura farmer before Loki. 

12. Silvers Rayleigh

From the right hand man of the future pirate king to the right hand man of the previous pirate king, we have Silvers Rayleigh. In One Piece chapter 500 and episode 397, we were led to believe this man was nothing more than a ship coating mechanic. But, we see him use conquerors haki to save Camie from the auction house at Sabaody. I thought he was just a random old man.

Then, later it is revealed he was the right hand man of Gol D. Roger. Without Rayleigh, the Straw Hats would surely have been wiped by the World Government. Shout out to the best old man in One Piece.  

11. Marshall D. Teach (Blackbeard)

Just missing the top 10 most memorable One Piece character introductions is Blackbeard, aka Marshall D. Teach. After Monkey D. Luffy, Roronoa Zoro, and Nami sit at a bar in Jaya, they meet Blackbeard, one of the main villains in One Piece. During chapter 223 and episode 146, Luffy and Blackbeard order the same pies and sodas. Notably, their opinions on each food were the complete opposite. Later in the following chapter, Blackbeard then tells Luffy not to give up on his dreams. He said not to listen to Bellamy, and that he will find the Sky Island.

It is an interesting introduction because Oda shows us that while they are completely opposite in character, their will and passion towards their dreams are one in the same. Both Luffy and Blackbeard have the “Will of D.” What this means is still a mystery, but it does mean their fate is linked.

10. Kizaru (Borsalino)

Finally, the definitive top 10 list. Starting with Kizaru, aka Borsalino, this memorable introduction happens in One Piece chapter 504 and episode 398. After Luffy punches the Saint Charlos, the world nobles call in a Navy Admiral to come take care of the pirate problems in Sabaody. The admiral that takes the call is none other than Kizaru. His first appearance in One Piece is absolutely insane. He legitimately RIDES ON TOP OF A CANNON BALL.

On top of that, he showcases his OP fruit, the Light-Light fruit, which lets him travel at the speed of light and shoot light beams. He takes care of everyone pretty much instantly and even rips apart the Straw Hats. This was their first huge defeat, apart from the next person on this list. 

9. Kuzan (Aokiji)

For the longest time, the Straw Hats weren’t really challenged. Even during Skypeia, Enel’s Rumble-Rumble fruit was completely nullified by Luffy. So, in chapter 303 and episode 225 of One Piece, the Admiral Navy Aokiji was introduced. The man is seen BIKING ACROSS THE OCEAN. I mean how epic is that. He has absolutely no care about the dangers of the Grand Line. Later on, he demonstrates his Logia Devil Fruit, the Ice-Ice fruit, against the Straw Hats. He warns the Monkey D. Luffy and the Straw Hats to be careful of Nico Robin.

During the encounter, it’s clear that Kuzan is going easy on the crew and is merely testing the crew’s resolve. Finally, he freezes Robin and Luffy, which he then makes his leave. The whole package of Kuzan’s memorable introduction is what pushes him into the top 10. He shows his strength, drops some lore, and leaves the crew in a chaotic mess. Gotta love Kuzan. 

8. Monkey D. Dragon

I’m not sure if this counts as an introduction, but it’s my list. In chapter 100 and episode 52, Monkey D. Dragon makes his very first appearance. As Monkey D. Luffy is about to be executed by Buggy the Clown, lightning strikes them which ends up freeing Luffy. Then, Luffy is chased and captured by Smoker. Luckily for him, a hooded man saves Luffy, which allows him to continue his adventure. Several years later, Oda reveals that man was actually Monkey D. Dragon, Luffy’s father. I just know everyone’s reaction to learning that was like WOAHHH NO WAY. I mean, that was my reaction. 

7. Nico Robin

Early on in One Piece, Nico Robin, one of One Piece’s most beloved characters, was once one of the most despised. During chapter 114 and episode 67 (nice number) of One Piece, Nico Robin was first introduced as Miss All Sunday, a member of the villainous Baroque Works. After what seemed like Igaram’s sacrifice, Nico Robin appears on the Going Merry.

All the Straw Hats were shocked with fear, but Sanji and Usopp were prepared, aiming at Miss All Sunday, equipped with a gun and a slingshot, respectively. Nico Robin offers Luffy the Eternal Pose which would lead them directly to Alabasta, bypassing Little Garden. Luffy quickly declines and Nico Robin departs. I don’t know about you guys but when Nico Robin was first introduced, I hated her. She just seemed too cocky and manipulative, but she definitely redeemed herself later on. 

6. Kaido

Kaido is the third longest-delayed character introductions in One Piece. Over 350 chapters after his initial name drop in the Post Enies Lobby arc, Kaido was finally revealed in chapter 795 and episode 736. He was first seen on top of a sky island overlooking the Blue Sea. Urouge, one of the supernovas and a sky island native, told Kaido his presence was unwelcomed. However, Kaido just came for one purpose. To end his life. All the man wanted was a glorious death, one that would be heard around the world for centuries to come. So, Kaido jumps off into the Blue Sea below him.

Unfortunately for Kaido, even in his memorable introduction, he was unsuccessful in ending his own life. The strongest man alive gets up and curses everything around him. This is probably the number one pick for most people, but I, like always, have different views on my most memorable One Piece introductions.

5. Duval

Duval’s introduction to One Piece might be Eiichiro Oda’s best punchline in the show. During chapter 491 and episode 386, the Straw Hats meet Duval, who at first HATED Sanji. I remember thinking Duval was going to be a major game changer to the plot of One Piece. Is it another Warlord? Is it someone connected to the Straw Hats in some way? Nope. It’s all because of Vinsmoke Sanji’s very first bounty.

Back on Enies Lobby, the headshot of Sanji looked like a Temu version of himself. It was a great gag and you could tell how much Sanji despised it. Dozens of chapters later, the joke finally comes back and is revealed to look EXACTLY like Duval. The headshot ruined Duval’s life because everyone thought he had a bounty. Also, Brook laughing and pointing at Duval is one of the funniest moments in One Piece. Just ridiculous writing. 

4. Dracule Mihawk

When people think about the most memorable One Piece introductions they most likely think about the character Dracule Mihawk, one of the seven warlords of the sea. In chapter 49 and episode 23 of One Piece, Mihawk slashes his way to the spotlight. If you recall, he came in during the Baratie Arc where Don Krieg was also introduced.

From our perspective, Don Krieg was supposed to be THE pirate of the East Blue. Then, Mihawk comes along and completely destroys his armada like it’s nothing. This was the first time in One Piece where fans saw just how far the Straw Hats were from being the strongest crew. Mihawk sticks with me because, even now, one can make the case that he is the strongest in the One Piece world. 

3. Crocus

This might be controversial, but yes, Crocus takes the third place spot. First appearing in chapter 102 and episode 62, Crocus is the very person the Straw Hats meet on the Grand Line. And I know what you are thinking. His introduction in chapter 102 is no where near as iconic and memorable as it was in the anime. For those that don’t know, the Straw Hats, aside from Monkey D. Luffy, are swallowed whole inside Laboon, who was our first entry. Inside Laboon sits a small island with an old man, Crocus, sitting in the middle.

Then there’s the hilarious back and forth with the camera. It shows crocus’s serious and deadly face. Then it quickly shows the confusion and worry on the crew’s faces. Back and forth, back and forth. Until finally, Crocus sits down in his lawn chair and pulls out a newspaper. If you haven’t seen this then go check out one of the most memorable introductions in all of One Piece. Absolute cinema. 

2. Monkey D. Luffy

You knew it. I knew it. It’s the protagonist of the show. Monkey D. Luffy takes the silver medal on this list. In chapter 1 and episode 1 of One Piece, fans are met with two different introductions. In the manga, a kid Luffy stabs himself under his left eye to prove he can become a pirate and sail the seas with Shanks and the Red Hair Pirates. That is how he gets his iconic scar just below the eye. This version is awesome but his other introduction is cooler.

On the flip side, the anime introduces Luffy with the iconic barrel scene. Here, Luffy breaks through the lid of the barrel on Alvida’s pirate ship and meets Koby, the chore boy. I love the barrel scene so much. It’s super iconic and one of the most memorable character introductions of One Piece. 

1. Gol D. Roger

“Wealth. Fame. Power. The man who had everything in this world. The Pirate King, Gold Roger.” Topping the list is, of course, Gol D. Roger. Chapter 1 and episode 1 of One Piece is THE most memorable introduction of a character without a doubt. I’m sure any fan of One Piece that hears the opening three words will INSTANTLY think of that epic speech with Roger kneeling, waiting to be executed.

On top of that, it’s repeated throughout the anime several times in openings and flashbacks. Eiichiro Oda and Toei knew just how epic it was. Gol D. Roger, the original aura farmer of One Piece, stands tall as the most memorable character introductions in One Piece of all time. 

Until Next Time

Hey everyone, thanks for reading the 25 most memorable One Piece character introductions! If you think I left a notable introduction then please leave a comment, and I will gladly respond to it. If you would like to read more on One Piece then check out the best female characters in One Piece. Or if you want something else I also have an article on Kingdom Hearts, the best Keyblades in Kingdom Hearts 3.

Anyway, thanks again and be sure to come back for more! Stay sexy my friends and until next time, have a good one!

Also, shout out to One Piece Wiki for all the information on when each One Piece character is introduced!