One Piece creator wanted this character to be second to Luffy, and fans are surprised
The world of One Piece is filled with captivating characters, epic battles, and a treasure trove of secrets waiting to be uncovered. But imagine if the story had unfolded differently, where a different character had been envisioned as the main protagonist alongside Luffy? This is precisely the revelation that has sent shockwaves through the One Piece fandom, as creator Eiichiro Oda shared his original vision for the series.
In a special interview featured on the DVD release of the One Piece prequel anime, “Monsters,” Oda revealed that Shimotsuki Ryuma, the legendary swordsman, was initially intended to be the second main character alongside Luffy. This unexpected revelation has left fans questioning how the narrative might have been shaped if Ryuma had remained a central figure in the story.
Oda explained that the idea of having two main characters was crucial in his initial plans. “Around this time (before One Piece), I was proud of having already imagined a character like Luffy as the main character,” he stated. “Next, I thought I would like to make a supporting character into a main character.” This desire to create a dynamic duo led to the development of Ryuma, specifically designed to be Luffy’s equal in terms of importance and influence.
Oda’s intention to feature Ryuma as a second main character sheds light on the creation of “Monsters” itself, which was originally conceived as a prequel exploring Ryuma’s backstory. However, Oda’s creative vision shifted, and Ryuma’s role in One Piece was significantly altered, eventually leading to his introduction in the Thriller Bark Arc.
The absence of Ryuma as a central figure in the main storyline left a void that was ultimately filled by Roronoa Zoro, Luffy’s first crewmate and a skilled swordsman in his own right. While Zoro’s connection to Ryuma wasn’t immediately revealed, it later emerged that Zoro is, in fact, Ryuma’s descendant.
Zoro: The Unexpected Deuteragonist
While Zoro’s role may not have been envisioned as a second main character from the start, his position within the Straw Hats and the narrative itself suggests that he is, in essence, Luffy’s right-hand man. His unwavering loyalty, exceptional swordsmanship, and unwavering dedication to Luffy solidify his status as Luffy’s closest confidant and second-in-command.
The revelation of Ryuma’s intended role has sparked intense discussions among fans, with many speculating on the potential impact of this alternate narrative. Some fans have voiced their surprise and fascination with Ryuma’s original role, while others have expressed their appreciation for Zoro’s journey as Luffy’s most trusted companion.
“Damn, so Ryuma in Thriller Bark is the #2 main character,” wrote one X user, with another joining, “Ryuma is made as 2nd main character! Yes, I do believe Zoro will surpass Ryuma one day hopefully.”
The revelation of Ryuma’s intended role has prompted fans to revisit Zoro’s character arc, recognizing his evolution from a formidable swordsman to a loyal friend and captain-in-waiting. Some have even suggested that Zoro’s position as Luffy’s closest ally and second-in-command elevates him to the status of a deuteragonist, a term often used to describe the second most important character in a story.
“After reading it again, Oda created Ryuma to be the second main character but since Ryuma is dead in the main timeline of One Piece, Zoro is the character created to support Luffy as 2nd main character. Did I get that right? But does this make him the deuteragonist?”
While Oda’s comment doesn’t explicitly confirm Zoro’s deuteragonist status, it does confirm that Oda always had Luffy (or someone like him) as his main protagonist. The revelation of Ryuma’s intended role adds a fresh layer of intrigue to the One Piece narrative, prompting fans to re-evaluate the roles of both Zoro and Ryuma in the grand scheme of the story. It also highlights the intricate and dynamic nature of Oda’s storytelling, where characters and their roles can evolve and change over time, leaving fans constantly surprised and engaged.
From Ryuma to Zoro: A Shift in Destiny
The shift from Ryuma to Zoro as Luffy’s second-in-command represents a pivotal change in the narrative, with each character possessing unique qualities and strengths that contribute to the story’s overall arc. Ryuma, with his legendary swordsmanship and connection to the past, could have brought a different dimension to the story, perhaps focusing on historical themes and battles.
Zoro, however, embodies camaraderie, perseverance, and a unwavering loyalty to his captain. His journey as a swordsman mirrors Luffy’s growth as a pirate, with each facing challenges and setbacks that solidify their resolve. This camaraderie and shared journey create a powerful bond between Luffy and Zoro, highlighting the importance of friendship and loyalty in the world of One Piece.
The unexpected revelation of Ryuma’s intended role serves as a reminder of the constant evolution of One Piece. While fans may wonder what might have been if Ryuma had remained a central figure, the story we know and love is a testament to Oda’s creative decisions and his ability to adapt and innovate. The journey of Luffy and his crew, with Zoro at his side, continues to captivate audiences worldwide, reminding us that even the most unexpected twists and turns can lead to a truly remarkable story.
Unraveling the Mysteries of One Piece
The One Piece universe is teeming with unanswered questions and intriguing mysteries, constantly pushing fans to delve deeper into the lore and explore the intricate connections between characters and events. The revelation of Ryuma’s intended role only adds to the intrigue, prompting further speculation about the possibilities that were explored before Oda solidified the narrative.
From the enigmatic Devil Fruits to the secrets hidden within the Void Century, One Piece continues to fascinate fans with its complex world-building and captivating characters. The journey to uncover the truth behind the One Piece treasure and the mysteries surrounding the world’s history is ongoing, with each new arc offering fresh insights and deepening the narrative’s already intricate tapestry.
As fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter of the One Piece saga, the unexpected revelation of Ryuma’s intended role serves as a reminder of the boundless possibilities and surprises that lie within the world of One Piece. The journey to unravel the secrets and mysteries of the Grand Line continues, with Oda’s creative vision guiding the way, and the fandom forever captivated by the epic adventure.
What character did the One Piece creator originally intend to be second to Luffy?
The One Piece creator originally intended for Shimotsuki Ryuma, the legendary swordsman, to be the second main character alongside Luffy.
What surprising revelation did the One Piece creator share about the character Ryuma?
The One Piece creator shared that Ryuma was initially envisioned as the second main character alongside Luffy, which surprised fans.
Why did Eiichiro Oda want to create a second main character in addition to Luffy?
Eiichiro Oda wanted to create a dynamic duo by having two main characters, with Ryuma designed to be Luffy’s equal in importance and influence.
Who eventually became Luffy’s right-hand man and second-in-command in the One Piece series?
Roronoa Zoro eventually became Luffy’s right-hand man and second-in-command within the Straw Hats due to his loyalty, swordsmanship, and dedication to Luffy.
