The One Piece anime made a spectacular comeback in April 2023 after a lengthy hiatus, reigniting excitement among fans. With thrilling episodes featuring the rematch between Luffy and Kizaru, alongside the dramatic reveal of St. Saturn’s Demonic Form, the series has kept us on the edge of our seats. As we delved deeper into the conflict at Egghead Island, Bartholomew Kuma’s heart-wrenching backstory began to unfold. For the past two months, viewers around the globe have witnessed this emotional journey, beautifully animated and grippingly told, just as fans had hoped.
Kuma’s narrative reached its climax in Episode 1136, titled “Kuma’s Life,” which aired on July 13, 2025. This episode marked the conclusion of a pirate’s saga filled with deep tragedy and abiding love, capturing the essence of his character’s struggles and sacrifices.
The pivotal scene where Kuma’s memories flood back before he loses his humanity to become a soulless cyborg was masterfully adapted for the anime. This poignant moment resonated deeply with fans, evoking feelings of heartbreak, yet placing Kuma firmly in their hearts.
Fans quickly took to platforms like IMDb, showering the episode with perfect ratings. A mere day after its release, One Piece episode 1136, boasting a stellar rating of 9.9, has claimed the title of the highest-rated One Piece episode of all time.
This year has seen the release of numerous acclaimed shonen anime, such as Solo Leveling season 2, To be Hero X, Apothecary Diaries season 2, and Dandadan season 2. Yet, none have matched the brilliance of One Piece, as episode 1136 currently holds the title of the highest-rated anime episode of 2025.
The animation quality throughout the Egghead Island arc has been exceptional, and Kuma’s backstory is no exception. Once criticized for slow pacing and inconsistent quality, Toei Animation has firmly established its reputation as a leading studio, continuously delivering top-notch episodes that fans can look forward to. The praise from viewers is well-deserved, as they have taken the One Piece anime to new heights.
What are your thoughts on how Kuma’s backstory has been adapted in the One Piece anime? We encourage you to share your views in the comments below.
Why is One Piece episode 1136 considered so impactful? The emotional depth and animation quality resonated deeply with fans, ultimately leading to its high ratings.
What makes Bartholomew Kuma’s story so compelling? Kuma’s journey is filled with profound tragedy and unconditional love, elements that strongly connect with viewers.
How does One Piece compare to other anime released in 2025? While many new shonen series have premiered, One Piece episode 1136 stands out as the highest-rated episode, showcasing its enduring popularity and quality.
How has Toei Animation improved its performance in recent years? The animation studio has evolved significantly, consistently delivering high-quality episodes while enhancing the pacing and storytelling that fans have come to appreciate.
In conclusion, the remarkable storytelling and visuals in One Piece continue to captivate and inspire its audience. Don’t miss out on exploring more related content. For further insights and updates, be sure to check out Moyens I/O.