Undoubtedly, One Piece stands tall with its cult popularity and worldwide fanbase. It is also one of the most successful anime franchises with its breakthroughs. Besides world records, it is soaring heights with its splendid animation and storytelling.
Above all, the series’ cultural impact is indisputable in more ways than one. This is especially true with theme parks, cafes, and collaborations. However, a recent development vexed the fans majorly.
With Pacman and Skibidi Toilet’s addition to Fortnite, fans couldn’t help but express disappointment. The game previously featured Dragon Ball along with Naruto. In this case, fans’ disdain seems valid mostly.
On the other hand, the game’s exclusion of Luffy only proves why the character remains a cultural icon. From his persona to his determination, Oda left no stone unturned in magnifying his brilliance.
To say One Piece is popular would be a gross understatement. Throughout the years, the series’ viewership has grown exponentially. From awards to accolades, it is a trailblazer in the shonen genre in most aspects.
This is also evident in the franchise’s branching out to other aspects. Be it merchandise, live-action, or cultural attraction, it has become a phenomenon. Regardless of that, it isn’t a one-hit wonder as most would assume. And there’s more to it.
Apart from cafes and theme parks, the franchise has collaborated with top-tier brands. A perfect example of this is Lacoste which was foreshadowed early on. It was all part of Oda’s plan to bring out his artistic brilliance fused with the brand’s finesse.
But some instances have angered and vexed the fans. And one such case is that of Fortnite’s exclusion from the series. Recently, it featured Skibidy Toilet along with Pacman which angered most nakamas. It is valid considering the game previously featured Naruto and Dragon Ball Z. But there’s more to it.
Fans on X expressed their disappointment toward the game for excluding Luffy.
one piece fans seeing skibidi toilet get added to fornite before luffy pic.twitter.com/MIlXN4cthu
— KimJollyWexler – 👅🎄 (@mrgrizz123) December 18, 2024
They’re adding anyone at this point
— markeith (@marBr04644288) December 19, 2024
“An item shop reset, without me? They got skibidi toilet?? That stupid singing toilet hasn’t even been asked for by the community!”
— mick (@m1ck_3un) December 19, 2024
“SKIBIDI?!? THEY INVITED SKIBIDI TOILET?!? THAT PORCELAIN HEADED MEATBAG ISNT EVEN PLAYABLE IN THIS GAME!!!”
— VibingRebel (@vibingrebel) December 19, 2024
I see this as a Win One Piece doesn't need an overrated shooter to stay relevant 🤷♂️
— Spoopy Monkey (@PirateKingSlayr) December 19, 2024
Amidst the disappointment, fans’ faith in the series is endearing. While the game excluded Oda’s character, there’s more to the series’ fame. This is especially true with Luffy being a cult icon worldwide in more ways than one.
Luffy is a celebrated Shonen protagonist for many reasons. He is a symbol of resistance, resilience, and perseverance. His feats against the world government and other foes make him a daunting character. But most of all, it is his self-belief that stands out.
Interestingly, his straw hat has become a symbol of determination. This is seen when a French YouTuber climbed Mount Everest sporting the character’s hat. While the news died down, it remains iconic and phenomenal in every sense. But there’s more to Luffy’s brilliance.
IShowSpeed’s Luffy-themed setup is estimated to be at a staggering $10 million which was a bolt out of the blue for most fans. This further validates the character’s stature as a cult icon in every aspect.
Often, Oda’s storytelling is glossed over as being merely fantastical. Little do people understand that it is laden with rebellion and resistance. And while Luffy was excluded from the game, it doesn’t diminish his true value as an icon.
One Piece is available for streaming on Crunchyroll. The manga is available for reading on Viz Media.
This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire