As the anime adaptation of One Piece continues through its thrilling arcs, fans are eagerly looking forward to seeing how new characters and legendary places will shape Luffy’s journey. One of the most talked-about characters is Prince Loki of Elbaf, who might hold a key role in the final saga. Recently, a theory has surfaced suggesting that Loki may not be a villain, despite his fearsome reputation. Here’s a breakdown of the theory, the hints in the storyline, and what fans can expect from Oda’s character development.

Loki: A Villain or a Misunderstood Ally?

In a recent article, Screen Rant discusses the possibility that Loki, the fearsome giant prince, might not be a true antagonist. This theory draws from the similarities between Loki and other royals in the series—like Vivi, Shirahoshi, and Rebecca—who were initially seen as threats before revealing their true, more compassionate selves. These characters encountered Luffy early on in their journeys, becoming valuable allies despite being initially misunderstood or mischaracterized as enemies.

The article highlights how Vivi, for example, was perceived as an enemy before her loyalty and bravery became evident. Similarly, Loki’s reputation might be twisted by political machinations within Elbaf. Many believe that the rumors of Loki killing his own father could be a manipulation designed to keep him from power or damage his reputation, much like what has happened with other rulers Luffy has encountered over the yearski’s Role in the Final Saga

Given Oda’s talent for weaving complex, multi-layered characters, it wouldn’t be surprising if Loki is revealed to be more complex than a simple villain. This aligns with the thematic threads throughout One Piece, where Luffy often overturns corrupt regimes, exposing hidden truths. Loki, as a royal of Elbaf, may eventually join Luffy’s quest, contributing his strength and loyalty to the crew’s mission. If the pattern holds, Loki’s arc could reflect Luffy’s unique ability to make allies out of former foes.

The Design of Loki: Oda’s Craftsmanship Shines Through

In addition to the character’s background, Game Rant has praised Oda’s design for Loki as one of the most striking in recent years. Loki’s appearance as a formidable giant fits perfectly with the lore of Elbaf, a land of giants that has been hinted at since early in the series. His imposing physique and regal bearing contribute to his intimidating reputation, making him look like a true powerhouse of the series.

Oda is known for his dedication to crafting visually memorable and culturally rich characters. Loki’s design reflects the strength and pride of the giants of Elbaf, adding to the excitement as fans anticipate his eventual full reveal .

W for One Piece and Loki’s Journey?

With One Piece nearing its final saga, we can expect Loki’s story to be pivotal in the upcoming arcs. His character has been shrouded in mystery, but as One Piece has shown time and again, there’s often more to these supposed “villains” than meets the eye. This intricate storytelling style is what makes Oda’s world so immersive, and as the series progresses, we’ll likely see Loki’s true nature and motivations unfold.

For more on Loki’s possible role in One Piece, check out the full article on Screen Rant and read about Oda’s design work on Loki on Game Rant.

Read more: Is Loki Not Really a Villain? What the Future Holds