One Piece: Will Loki Really Be the Final Straw Hat Pirate?

In the world of One Piece, nothing is ever predictable. Just when you think the Straw Hat crew is complete, Eiichiro Oda stirs the waters again. Now, as the Elbaf arc heats up, a new wave of theories and excitement has taken over the fandom. Could Prince Loki of Elbaf be the final member of Luffy’s pirate crew? With Chapter 1152 shaking up the story, the possibility no longer feels far-fetched. In fact, Oda might have just dropped the biggest hint yet. Before we dive into this twist, you can catch the latest One Piece episodes, streaming on Crunchyroll.

Luffy Wants Loki but Loki Wants Freedom

From the start of the Elbaf arc, Loki’s presence has been larger than life, both literally and narratively. Introduced in Chapter 1130 as the Accursed Prince, Loki was once feared for his seemingly dark ambitions. Believing himself to be the "Sun God" destined to destroy the world, Loki’s story quickly turned mysterious. But in a dramatic turn during Chapter 1143, Loki revealed he was framed for killing his father, King Harald, shaking the foundation of everything the Giants thought they knew about him.

At first, Loki tried to bargain with Luffy to gain his freedom. But in true Straw Hat style, Luffy flipped the script. In Chapter 1152, he offered Loki freedom only if he joined the crew. It's a move that mirrors how Zoro first joined: bound, at a crossroads, and given a choice by Luffy. Both were in chains, both had uncertain futures, and both stood at pivotal moments in their lives. This parallel might be more than coincidence, it might be Oda signaling something huge.

Why Loki Might Not Have a Choice?

The symbolism is strong. Loki’s chains don’t just hold him physically; they’re a metaphor for his fractured destiny. Luffy already saved Loki’s life once, and now, with Elbaf at war and Loki’s name cleared, he might be left with nothing. His chance at ruling Elbaf could go to Hajrudin, who many believe is more fitting to be king. That would leave Loki unbound by royal duty, opening the perfect path for a pirate life.

Luffy’s offer comes at a cost. Accepting it means surrendering pride and perhaps giving up the title of prince. But it also means gaining freedom, friendship, and a shot at fighting something much bigger - the Gods' Knights, who are likely tied to the Celestial Dragons. And for someone like Loki, that kind of cause might be worth everything. It’s not just about joining Luffy, it’s about finding purpose beyond a broken crown.

Loki’s Story Echoes That of Zoro’s Beginning

Let’s rewind for a second! Back in Volume 1, Zoro was introduced tied to a cross, his life hanging in the balance. Fast-forward to Volume 111, and Oda himself makes a strange reference: a bird crucified to protect someone, and then mentions Zoro’s debut. This bizarre yet poetic hint connects Zoro and Loki through both visual storytelling and character arcs. Zoro was the first crew member. Could Loki be the last?

The Elbaf arc hasn’t just introduced a cool new setting, it’s redefining what it means to be a Straw Hat. Fans have been clinging to the idea of “10 Straw Hats” ever since Luffy said it in Chapter 1. With 9 official members so far, the door is wide open. While Vivi, Yamato, and even Carrot have been fan favorites for the spot, none have had the setup Loki is getting. This isn’t just a cameo, this is a fully fleshed-out arc, emotional, thematic, and deeply personal.

But Is Loki Really Joining or Just Tagging Along?

Of course, not everyone is convinced. There are a few solid logistical issues. For one, Loki is a Giant that possesses Ancient Giant blood, which makes him even bigger than regular Elbaf giants. The Thousand Sunny might be magical, but it’s not exactly built for someone the size of Loki. Unless Franky finds a way to modify the ship or Oda pulls a last-minute twist, Loki might simply be too large to fit onboard.

Also, each Straw Hat has a clear role: navigator, cook, doctor, etc. Loki doesn’t seem to fill any missing role on the crew. That doesn’t completely rule him out, but it does raise the question: does Luffy even need a 10^th member, or is this more about symbolic storytelling? The fact that Loki could still play a major ally role without officially joining might be where this ends up heading. The Egghead arc, which you can read more about in our detailed breakdown of the One Piece Egghead Arc, also hinted the idea of temporary allies. Maybe Loki is another ally in the same vein, powerful and plot-critical, but not bound for the entire journey.

Yet, even temporary characters can leave a lasting impact. And with Loki’s identity now transformed from a cursed prince to a misunderstood hero, the emotional payoff of him joining Luffy, even if just for the Final War, could be massive.

Loki Joining Could Mean Double Nika Power

If Loki truly is another Nika user or has powers resembling those of the Sun God, then imagine this: two Nika abilities in the same crew. That kind of team-up would be absolutely game-changing in the final war against Imu, the Celestial Dragons, and the ancient powers ruling the world. The crew’s strength is already unmatched, but adding Loki’s mysterious power could push them into legend. Whether or not Loki becomes an official Straw Hat, he’s almost guaranteed to be a major player in the Final Saga.

So, Is Loki Joining or Not?

The signs are strong, the symbolism is rich, and the story setup is perfect. Loki has been broken down, misunderstood, and given a shot at redemption: all classic Straw Hat entry themes. He fits emotionally, thematically, and narratively. But physically and functionally? The puzzle is trickier.

Whether he ends up a Straw Hat or a close ally, Loki is here to stay, and Elbaf is shaping up to be one of the most emotionally powerful arcs in One Piece history. If Oda follows through on the Zoro and Loki parallels, then the Straw Hats may be gaining their most powerful and unexpected member yet.

One thing’s for sure! Loki’s journey is far from over. And as One Piece nears its final chapters, every new bond, every battle, and every decision carries the weight of the Pirate King’s dream.