One Piece Already Released a New Episode That Most Fans Missed, but There's a Catch

Fans of One Piece received an unexpected treat last weekend during Day Two of the MBS Anime Fest event in Kobe, Japan. An all-new short episode of the One Piece anime premiered at the event and was subsequently released online, sparking excitement among fans worldwide. The episode, though brief, is a must-watch for One Piece enthusiasts.

The good news for overseas fans is that the episode is available for viewing on YouTube. However, it comes with some caveats: the episode runs for only five minutes and is presented solely in untranslated Japanese. Despite these limitations, the excitement surrounding this release highlights the enduring appeal of Eiichiro Oda’s beloved series

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A Unique Storyline Set After the Battle of Wanokuni

Luffy and Law team up to face a colossal sea serpent

According to the official description, the new episode takes place during the Great Age of Pirates and explores a previously untold event that occurred after the Battle of Wanokuni. While short in duration, the episode packs a punch, featuring dynamic action scenes as Luffy and Law team up to face a colossal sea serpent. Brief cameos from other popular characters further enhance the episode’s charm, serving as a reminder of what makes One Piece so iconic.

This special release is part of the ongoing celebrations for the franchise’s 25th anniversary. Last summer, One Piece marked this milestone with numerous events centered around “One Piece Day” (July 22 in Japan). The release of this new short episode at the MBS Anime Fest is yet another highlight in the series’ celebratory timeline.

MBS Anime Fest Returns After Seven-Year Hiatus

Special Appearances and Performances Delight Fans

The MBS Anime Fest, which first launched in Osaka in 2005, has grown into a major event for anime fans. Over the years, it has changed locations before finding a home at the Kobe World Memorial Hall in Hyogo Prefecture. After a seven-year hiatus due to the pandemic, the festival returned in grand fashion last weekend.

In addition to the surprise One Piece episode, the festival featured presentations and events for other major anime franchises, including the much anticipated Haikyu!! The Movie, Attack on Titan, and Jujutsu Kaisen. These highlights made the 2025 MBS Anime Fest an unforgettable event for attendees.

The One Piece segment of the festival was particularly memorable, with an unexpected live appearance by Mayumi Tanaka (voice of Monkey D. Luffy) and Hiroshi Kamiya (voice of Trafalgar Law). Their on-stage presence delighted the audience, as did a rousing performance by singer Hiroshi Kitadani, known for his work on One Piece theme songs.

As fans eagerly await the return of One Piece with the “Egghead Arc,” set to resume in April 2025 following a six-month production hiatus, this short episode offers a thrilling glimpse into the world of One Piece. Whether enjoyed at the festival or on YouTube, it’s a reminder of the enduring magic of this legendary series.

Source: Otaku USA