One Piece Season 2: How It’s Avoiding a 17-Year-Old Mistake to Perfectly Capture the Arabasta Saga

Netflix’s One Piece live-action adaptation is making a smart move by taking its time with the storyline, unlike the 2007 animated film Episode of Arabasta: The Desert Princess and the Pirates, which condensed the arc into a 90-minute movie. The Netflix show’s decision to avoid rushing is a positive step for fans who want a faithful, detailed version of the beloved Arabasta arc.

Season 1 of the live-action One Piece covered the East Blue saga in eight episodes, and many expected Season 2 to cover the entire Arabasta saga similarly. However, Netflix has confirmed that Season 2 will only cover key parts leading up to Arabasta, including Loguetown, Reverse Mountain, Whisky Peak, Little Garden, and Drum Island. This means that the major conflict in Arabasta is being saved for a possible Season 3.

Why Saving Arabasta for Season 3 Is the Right Choice

The Episode of Arabasta film, while visually appealing, was criticized for cutting too much of the original story. Key characters like Ace, Smoker, and Tashigi were left out, and crucial battles, like those between Luffy and Crocodile, were shortened.

This rush through the story led to an adaptation that lost the depth and impact of the original manga and anime arcs. By waiting until Season 3 for the full Arabasta arc, Netflix’s One Piece avoids these mistakes and promises a more complete, accurate storyline.

What Fans Can Expect in Season 2

With Season 2 covering the lead-up to Arabasta, fans will still see important characters introduced, such as Princess Vivi, Nico Robin, and Chopper. These characters play critical roles in the Arabasta storyline, so giving them more time to be developed on screen makes for a richer experience. The season will also feature iconic arcs, like Drum Island, which introduces Chopper as a new crew member, and Whisky Peak, known for its lively encounters.

The Netflix live-action adaptation has provided an alternative way for newcomers to dive into One Piece without having to watch hundreds of anime episodes. Season 1 served as a condensed, yet faithful version of the East Blue saga, allowing new fans to experience the series without feeling overwhelmed by its length. Now, by pacing out the Arabasta saga across two seasons, Netflix can keep this accessible approach while maintaining the depth and excitement that longtime fans love. This thoughtful pacing sets a positive tone for future seasons, keeping One Piece enjoyable for both new viewers and loyal fans of the manga.