When Gear 5 first appeared in One Piece, it was celebrated as one of the most thrilling and imaginative moments in manga history. Eiichiro Oda transformed Luffy’s long-teased power-up into something entirely new — a cartoonish, almost divine awakening that embodied freedom and creativity. But over time, what was once hailed as a masterpiece of originality has become a lightning rod for debate among fans.
The Split in the Fandom
The controversy surrounding Gear 5 stems from its tone. While some fans adore the Looney Tunes–inspired style — where Luffy bends physics, stretches imagination, and laughs in the face of danger — others feel it has turned once-tense battles into comedic spectacles. Critics argue that the exaggerated humor undermines emotional moments, especially when compared to the gravity of earlier fights like Luffy vs. Katakuri or Luffy vs. Rob Lucci.
Memes, edits, and heated debates across X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit show just how polarizing this form has become. Some praise it as Oda’s boldest move yet, while others say it represents a tonal shift that’s hard to take seriously in the series’ darker moments.
A Contrast to the God Valley Arc
Interestingly, the current God Valley Arc has reignited discussions about tone and storytelling. The flashback’s serious and dramatic exploration of figures like Rocks D. Xebec, Gol D. Roger, and Imu has captivated fans with its high-stakes, lore-heavy narrative. In comparison, Gear 5’s lighthearted energy feels worlds apart — almost like two different series coexisting under one name. Many readers have even said they’re more emotionally invested in God Valley’s history than in the present adventures of the Straw Hats.
Oda’s Creative Vision
Despite the division, one thing remains clear: Oda never intended Gear 5 to be just another power-up. It’s an artistic statement — a reflection of Luffy’s pure freedom and unbreakable joy, even amid chaos. Oda has long said that One Piece is about liberation in every sense, and Gear 5 may be his most literal expression of that theme.
For some, that makes the form genius. For others, it’s a distraction. But whether fans love or hate it, Gear 5 has accomplished something rare: it’s made people talk — passionately, endlessly, and globally — about what One Piece really stands for.
A Legacy Still in Motion
As the manga marches toward its final saga, Gear 5 continues to define Luffy’s identity and test the boundaries of shōnen storytelling. Just like the God Valley Arc, it proves Oda’s ability to keep the world of One Piece fresh, surprising, and unpredictable — even after more than two decades. Whether it’s remembered as a stroke of genius or a divisive experiment, Gear 5 has already secured its place in anime history as one of the most daring transformations ever created.
