One Piece fans often speculate about alternate storylines and one of the most intriguing questions is: what if Ace didn’t die? Ace’s death was a pivotal moment in the series, significantly impacting the characters and the story’s trajectory. In this article, we’ll explore the possible outcomes and ramifications of Ace’s survival, delving into how it could have reshaped the world of One Piece.

What if Ace Didn’t Die in One Piece: The Immediate Aftermath

Had Ace survived the Battle of Marineford, the immediate aftermath would have been drastically different. The war itself might have ended differently, potentially leading to fewer casualties among the Whitebeard Pirates and their allies. Ace’s survival could have also influenced Whitebeard’s fate, possibly preventing his death or at least altering his final moments.

Ace’s rescue would have been a massive morale boost for the Whitebeard Pirates. With their second division commander alive, they might have regrouped and continued to challenge the Marines and the World Government with renewed vigor. The balance of power in the New World could have shifted, with the Whitebeard Pirates maintaining their status as a formidable force.

Impact on Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates

Luffy was deeply affected by Ace’s death, using it as motivation to become stronger. If Ace had survived, Luffy’s growth trajectory might have been different. While he would still strive to become Pirate King, his journey might have taken on a different tone, with less of the intense personal drive fueled by grief and loss.

The bond between Ace and Luffy would have continued to be a central theme in the series. Ace might have joined Luffy on his adventures, creating a dynamic duo that would have been nearly unstoppable. Their combined strength and the alliance of the Straw Hat Pirates with the Whitebeard Pirates could have changed the course of many battles and encounters throughout the New World.

Changes in the Whitebeard Pirates

Ace’s presence would have provided stability and leadership within the Whitebeard Pirates. Following Whitebeard’s death, there was a power vacuum that led to internal struggles and challenges from other pirate crews. With Ace alive, he could have taken on a leadership role, guiding the crew through these tumultuous times and ensuring their unity and strength.

Furthermore, Ace’s influence might have extended beyond his own crew. He had a strong bond with many characters across the One Piece world, including those in the Revolutionary Army and other pirate crews. His survival could have strengthened alliances and created new opportunities for cooperation against common enemies like the World Government and the Marines.

The Broader One Piece World

Ace’s survival would have had ripple effects across the entire One Piece world. His continued presence would have been a constant reminder of the Whitebeard Pirates’ power and legacy. This might have deterred other pirates from challenging them and even influenced the actions of the Yonko and other significant players in the New World.

Additionally, Ace’s survival could have altered the course of the Revolutionary Army’s efforts. As the son of Gol D. Roger and the brother of Monkey D. Luffy, Ace had a unique position that could have bridged the gap between pirates and revolutionaries. This might have led to more coordinated efforts to challenge the World Government, accelerating the revolutionary movement.

Emotional and Personal Outcomes

On a more personal level, Ace’s survival would have meant a great deal to his friends and family. Luffy, Sabo, and the rest of the Straw Hat crew would have been spared the grief and trauma of his loss. The bond between the three brothers, Luffy, Ace, and Sabo, would have remained intact, potentially leading to more collaborative efforts and shared adventures.

Ace’s survival might have also provided opportunities for him to confront his past and his lineage. As the son of the Pirate King, Gol D. Roger, Ace struggled with his identity and the legacy he inherited. With more time, he could have come to terms with his heritage and found a way to honor his father’s legacy while forging his own path.

Conclusion

The question of what if Ace didn’t die in One Piece opens up a world of possibilities. Ace’s survival would have had profound implications for the characters and the broader One Piece universe. From altering the balance of power among the pirates to impacting Luffy’s journey and the revolutionary movement, the ripple effects of Ace’s continued presence would have been felt far and wide.

While we can only speculate on these alternate outcomes, it’s clear that Ace’s death was a turning point in One Piece. His legacy continues to influence the series, and the what-if scenarios remind us of the intricate and interconnected nature of Eiichiro Oda’s world.