In every single anime, eventually, power creep gets you. The threats get bigger, the heroes get stronger, and some characters are left in the dust. Maybe they aren’t as powerful, or maybe they get shoved aside in favor of others. However, all of these overshadowed characters deserve a place in the sun. They’ve all had their heroic and memorable moments. They’ve all gotten to prove what makes them special and worthy. It is time we recognized them for what they are and showed off some of the most underrated heroes in One Piece because they don’t deserve to be overshadowed.
1. Koby
A young boy who met Luffy after Luffy helped him escape some pirates, Koby has risen through the Marines. Luffy was able to convince Koby to follow his dream of joining the Marines, and he has served as an ally and enemy to his friend. Koby serves as an interesting perspective on the other side of the Pirate-Marine relationship.
Plus, he’s started to question the authority and decisions of the Marines. He’s also had some importance with events unfolding on the island of Hachinosu. Especially with the development of his Haki, so hopefully we will get to see more of him.
2. Bon Clay (Mr. 2)
Initially one of the first enemies that the Straw Hats faced as part of Baroque Works, Bon Clay would later turn into an ally for Luffy. First he disguised himself as Luffy and sacrificed himself in order to allow the Straw Hats to escape, and later at Impel down. Where Luffy had to team up with several of his enemies in order to get through the prison and save Ace.
While Bon Clay is often seen as a comic relief character, he actually is pretty powerful and selfless. His power of the Mane Mane no Mi fruit allows him to transform into anyone he touches, and he has used it to pull off many tricks. He’s an underrated hero who’s sacrifices shouldn’t be forgotten.
3. Usopp
It might seem weird to have one of the main members of the Straw Hats be considered underrated, but Usopp certainly has his more powerful moments overshadowed. He’s cowardly, comical, and emotional, but when the chips are down he is prepared to stand and fight.
From dueling Luffy over the Going Merry, developing his own Haki, and defeating powerful opponents with a literal bag of tricks, Usopp is quite powerful. He might not be as strong as the other Straw Hats. Still, many fans are hoping that he gets a power up and some courage for the Final Saga.
4. Curly Dadan
While people like Shanks and Garp get the credit for raising Luffy into the man he is today, many don’t think about Curly. Curly Dadan took care of Ace, Luffy, and Sabo and raised the boys like her own. A powerful bandit leader capable of taking on various enemies to protect her family, she is a real hero.
Additionally, she reminds the audience that everyone has loved ones, and after certain arcs, we can see how she reacts. Especially after the death of Ace or seeing Luffy achieve his dreams. She’s a wonderful part of Luffy’s life and part of what made him who he is, and that deserves appreciation.
5. Tony Tony Chopper
Yet another Straw Hat who finds himself underrated. Chopper is an adorable reindeer, the doctor of the ship, and one of the kindest creatures you will ever meet. However, as the rest of the crew has grown more powerful, he’s lagged behind. He’s become more of a mascot for the crew and comic relief.
However, Chopper has plenty of powers. These include his Hito Hito no Mi Devil Fruit, which gives him access to various transformations. He has access to the rumble balls that unlock further transformations. These powers make him a very powerful fighter who has been able to stand up to various enemies. For many his true power is worth another look.
6. Nefertari Vivi
As the princess of Alabasta, she was one of the first honorary Straw Hats to work with the crew in freeing her homeland. While she wasn’t much of a fighter, was rather impulsive, and lacked some crucial understanding of war, she did show what Luffy was willing to do for a friend. Plus, she was able to give the Straw Hats some much-needed direction and allowed them to grow as a team.
Her diplomatic and espionage skills helped her in Alabasta, and she was also a tough and strong fighter. While she might not be as strong as the other Straw Hats (especially at this point in the story) she is someone who should return. She might be able to use her skills to bolster the Straw Hats cause and get them some allies.
7. Eustass Kid
Eustass Kid is just as powerful as Luffy and is a member of the 11 Supernovas but he doesn’t seem to get a lot of respect. He lost an arm and his ship to Shanks on two separate occasions. Even his battle with Big Mom alongside Trafalgar Law wasn’t that great, as he was defeated by Shanks in one blow afterward.
Eustass Kid has some interesting powers and abilities. He just hasn’t been able to rise to the fame and glory that some of the other heroes have. He’s still an interesting character, and many are hoping that he will get his chance to shine.
Hold Out Hope For These Heroes
Underrated as they might be, but they are still heroes and still pretty powerful at the end of the day. Hopefully, these heroes will be given the chance to take on enemies that are suited to them and then they can really show the world what they can do.
It’s always fun to read about the super-powerful heroes in anime and manga. Still, sometimes you’ve got to root for the underrepresented. If all goes well, the stories of these fan-favorite heroes won’t be over just yet.
