The year 2023 has proven to be a stellar one for One Piece enthusiasts. They've been treated to the most finely animated arc in the anime, coupled with a captivating inaugural segment of the Final Saga. Additionally, they relished the debut season of the live-action adaptation of One Piece. Despite initial skepticism, it soared to unprecedented heights, becoming the most-watched show on Netflix in over 80 countries, surpassing the previous record held by Wednesday. While the triumph of the live-action is indisputable, it wouldn't be an overstatement to affirm that, presently, the anime stands as the pinnacle among the three mediums. The battles in the Wano Country arc have been rendered with exceptional artistry, making it nearly impossible to single out a favorite. Nonetheless, a significant majority of fans are inclined to deem Luffy's ultimate showdown with Kaido as the apex. The young pirate clashed repeatedly with the Yonko, displaying remarkable growth following each defeat. There came a pivotal moment when Luffy unleashed his ultimate strike to bring down Kaido, but it inadvertently provided an opening for the Yonko to deliver a devastating blow, thanks to the interference of Guernica, a CP0 agent determined to eliminate Luffy. Kaido, displeased with this intervention, promptly administered retribution upon the assassin. However, the lethal strike that was poised to end Luffy's life proved to be a fortuitous turn of events, culminating in the awakening of Gear 5th.
From the story's outset, the consensus held that Luffy's Devil Fruit fell within the Paramecia category. Yet, in the Wano Country Arc, a revelation surfaced: it was, in truth, a Mythical Zoan-type, enhancing his physical prowess. The Devil Fruit's true moniker was unveiled after years of speculation. The Gomu Gomu no Mi, as it turned out, was none other than the Hito Hito no Mi, Model: Nika.
In legend, Nika stood as the Sun God, revered as the "Warrior of Liberation," spreading joy among the afflicted. This transformation arrived at an opportune juncture, coinciding with the plight of Wano's people, who had long forgotten the taste of true happiness since Kaido's arrival.
When Kaido felled Luffy, many feared the worst, a sentiment echoed by the Drums of Liberation. Zunesha, touched by the sound, evoked memories of Joyboy, hinting at the return of this legendary figure. Luffy's reawakening was nothing short of spectacular. His visage underwent a complete transformation, with hair and attire turning a pristine white, and his abilities soaring to new heights.
During Luffy's unconscious state, the will of the Devil Fruit took command. Oda confirmed that Zoan-type Devil Fruits possess an inherent will, underscoring the peril in harnessing their awakening. For Luffy, this heralded a newfound strength and mastery over his capabilities. It undeniably stood as the most iconic anime transformation of the year, naturally inviting comparisons to other renowned forms, including Goku's Super Saiyan metamorphosis. Almost every anime enthusiast is familiar with Goku, the martial artist renowned for his love of combat. Hailing from the formidable Saiyan race, known for their indomitable fighting spirit, Goku has honed an array of abilities over the years, solidifying his status as one of the mightiest anime figures in history. Yet, none of his myriad forms have left as indelible a mark as the Super Saiyan transformation.
This formidable state was first unveiled in a climactic battle against Frieza. With his back against the proverbial wall and hope seemingly extinguished, Goku, driven by the searing fury of witnessing Frieza's ruthless slaying of his dearest comrade, Krillin, tapped into an extraordinary power: the Super Saiyan. This transformation, born of wrath and the fervent desire to vanquish Frieza, came to symbolize Goku's unyielding determination.
Though the Super Saiyan metamorphosis remains peerless in its own right, Luffy's Gear 5th exhibits a subtle superiority. Over time, Goku has accrued a plethora of new transformations, gradually diluting the impact of the Super Saiyan. In contrast, Luffy has not undergone nearly as many metamorphoses. Devotees of One Piece recognize the arduous path Luffy must traverse to further develop his Devil Fruit abilities.
Presently, Luffy stands at the pinnacle of Yonko-level prowess, leaving only a scant few who could mount a challenge. Introducing another transformation for him might verge on overkill. It's crucial to acknowledge that Goku pioneered these transformative states, inspiring countless characters who followed in his wake. While Luffy's Gear 5th may not yet command the same iconic status as the Super Saiyan, in the years to come, it has the potential to surpass it and claim its place as the most extraordinary anime transformation.
