What if Ace Didn't Die in One Piece?

One Piece: What If Ace Didn't Die?

The world of One Piece is filled with unforgettable moments, but few are as impactful as the death of Portgas D. Ace. This tragic event left fans in shock and significantly shaped the series' narrative. But what if Ace didn't die? Let's explore this intriguing "what if" scenario and its potential effects on the world of One Piece.

Ace's Survival: Immediate Aftermath

If Ace had survived the Battle of Marineford, the immediate aftermath would have been drastically different. Ace was a pivotal figure in the Whitebeard Pirates, and his survival would have maintained the crew's morale and strength. Whitebeard's declaration that the One Piece treasure was real ignited the Great Pirate Era, but with Ace alive, the dynamics of the pirate world would have been altered significantly.

The Whitebeard Pirates' Power

Ace's death led to the fragmentation of the Whitebeard Pirates, but his survival could have prevented this disarray. With Ace, a powerful Logia-type Devil Fruit user, the Whitebeard Pirates would have retained their status as a formidable force on the seas. The alliance between the Whitebeard Pirates and the other allied crews would have remained strong, continuing to challenge the balance of power in the New World.

Luffy's Journey

Luffy's journey would have been deeply impacted by Ace's survival. Ace's death was a driving force behind Luffy's determination to grow stronger and protect his friends. With Ace alive, Luffy might not have undergone the same intense training with Rayleigh, potentially altering his growth as a pirate. However, Ace could also have served as a powerful ally and mentor, guiding Luffy through the perils of the New World.

Impacts on Key Characters

Blackbeard's Rise

Ace's death allowed Blackbeard to rise as one of the most powerful pirates in the world, but if Ace had survived, Blackbeard's plans could have been thwarted. Ace's vendetta against Blackbeard for betraying the Whitebeard Pirates would have continued, potentially leading to an epic showdown between the two. This confrontation could have changed the trajectory of Blackbeard's ascent to power.

Marineford War

The Battle of Marineford was a turning point in the series. If Ace had survived, the outcome of the war could have been different. The combined forces of the Whitebeard Pirates and their allies might have been able to repel the Marines and the Shichibukai, leading to a significant victory for the pirates. This victory would have had far-reaching implications for the balance of power between the pirates and the World Government.

Sabo's Role

Ace's death was a catalyst for Sabo's reappearance in the series. With Ace alive, Sabo's motivations and actions might have been different. Sabo could have joined forces with Ace and Luffy much earlier, creating a powerful trio of brothers united by their common goals. This alliance could have significantly altered the revolutionary activities against the World Government.

World Government and Revolutionary Army

The World Government's Response

The survival of Ace would have been a severe blow to the World Government's authority. The Marines' failure to execute Ace would have emboldened the pirates and revolutionary forces, potentially leading to increased resistance against the World Government. The balance of power would have shifted, with the Marines facing greater challenges in maintaining control over the seas.

Revolutionary Army's Strategy

The Revolutionary Army, led by Dragon, would have found a powerful ally in Ace. His hatred for the World Government and personal vendetta against the Marines would have aligned with the Revolutionary Army's goals. Ace's survival could have accelerated the Revolutionary Army's plans, leading to more aggressive actions against the World Government.

Conclusion

The hypothetical scenario of Ace surviving the Battle of Marineford opens up a world of possibilities in the One Piece universe. From altering the dynamics of pirate alliances to influencing the growth and development of key characters like Luffy and Sabo, Ace's survival would have had profound effects on the story. While we can only speculate, this "what if" scenario allows fans to reimagine the world of One Piece in fascinating ways.

In this alternate reality, the seas of One Piece would be even more tumultuous, filled with alliances, betrayals, and epic battles. Ace's presence would have been a beacon of hope for many and a symbol of defiance against the World Government, leaving an indelible mark on the One Piece legacy.