This year, the highest-rated One Piece episodes shattered records thanks to the emotional weight of Kuma’s tragic past and the gripping events of the Egghead Island arc. Studios have given us one of the most emotional masterpieces through a simple flashback into life-changing experiences for longtime followers of the series.
These ten highest-rated One Piece episodes represent the pinnacle of anime production that redefines what television animation can achieve.
1. Highest-Rated One Piece Episodes - Kuma's Life
Episode Number- 1136
Episode Rating- 9.8

Episodes 1136 and 1137 have risen to the top as the most celebrated in One Piece history, earning an impressive 9.8 rating. This episode acts as the emotional fruition of Kuma's backstory arc, showing his final moments of free will before becoming a cyborg. Kuma’s final moments of awareness were spent safeguarding the Straw Hat crew and securing their path forward. Viewers witness Kuma observing the Straw Hats' progress throughout Paradise, including his decision to split them for their training.
2. I'm Sorry, Dad - Bonney's Tears and Kuma's Fist
Episode Number- 1137
Episode Rating- 9.8

One of the highest-rated One Piece episodes, along with episode 1136, depicts the heartbreaking reunion between Bonney and her father, Kuma, during the intense Egghead arc. The episode masterfully illustrates Bonney's emotional meltdown as she witnesses Kuma's true sacrifice and the pain he bore to protect her. The animation reaches peak quality during the climactic moments where Bonney finally understands her father's love.
3. The Nightmare Strikes - Warrior God of Science and Defense, Saint Saturn
Episode Number- 1128
Episode Rating- 9.7

Saint Saturn's ominous arrival on Egghead Island builds one of the most intense altercations in recent episodes. This One Piece episode portrays the true power of the Five Elders as Saturn exhibits his monstrous abilities. The episode builds excellent tension as the Straw Hats face an enemy unlike any they've encountered before.
The animation team gives stunning visuals during Saturn's transformation sequences, creating nightmare-inducing imagery that perfectly grabs the episode's title. And thus making it to the position of one of the highest-rated One Piece episodes.
4. Luffy vs. Kizaru! A Fierce Kaleidoscopic Battle
Episode Number- 1127
Episode Rating- 9.6

The long-awaited clash between Luffy and Admiral Kizaru shows spectacular action sequences that justify its high ratings. This episode presents Luffy's growth as he faces one of the Navy's strongest fighters using his advanced Gear Fifth abilities. The battle choreography constructs a visual phenomenon with light-based attacks creating kaleidoscopic patterns across the battlefield.
The episode holds perfect pacing between intense combat moments and strategic thinking, making it one of the highest-rated One Piece episodes that fulfills action fans completely.
5. Kuma's Past - Better Off Dead in This World
Episode Number- 1129
Episode Rating- 9.6

This devastating episode reveals young Kuma's traumatic childhood as he witnesses his father's brutal murder by a Celestial Dragon during what should have been a moment of hope. The animation reaches visceral heights when Kuma becomes covered in his father's blood.
Clapp's attempt to comfort Kuma with stories of Nika provides brief salvation before tragedy strikes. The episode masterfully contrasts tender moments between characters with unimaginable cruelty. It shows how Celestial Dragons destroy innocent lives without consequence.
6. A History Erased! God Valley of Despair
Episode Number- 1130
Episode Rating- 9.6

The long-hidden events of the God Valley incident are at last revealed, exposing the Celestial Dragons’ merciless hunt of innocent locals and captives. One of the highest-rated One Piece episodes captures this pivotal moment in history through Kuma’s eyes. The episode showcases the arrival of legendary pirates and the chaos that ensued during this pivotal moment.
7. A Clash of Two Men's Determination! Kizaru and Sentomaru
Episode Number- 1125
Episode Rating- 9.5

The emotional confrontation between former allies Kizaru and Sentomaru creates one of the most heart-wrenching battles in recent memory. This episode explores the complex relationship between mentor and student as duty forces them into violent conflict. The battle sequences emphasize emotional weight over pure spectacle.
Sentomaru's determination to protect Dr. Vegapunk clashes with Kizaru's naval duties in ways that showcase both characters' moral struggles. One of the highest-rated One Piece episodes balances action with character development.
8. A Pledge to Ginny - Kuma Becomes a Father
Episode Number- 1132
Episode Rating- 9.4

The heartening story of Kuma's relationship with Ginny gets its emotional peak as he makes the utmost promise to protect her. This episode displays how Kuma's love for Ginny shaped his decisions and eventually led to his role as Bonney's father figure. The narrative beautifully portrays the tender moments between Kuma and Ginny that differ sharply from the harsh realities of their world.
Kuma's shift from revolutionary fighter to affectionate father constructs powerful character development that explains his later sacrifices. One of the highest-rated One Piece episodes shows how love can inspire even the strongest warriors to make impossible choices for family.
9. To the Sea Where My Father is! The Future Bonney Chooses
Episode Number- 1135
Episode Rating- 9.3

Bonney's decision to find and save her father moves this emotionally charged episode, which portrays her growth as a character. The episode follows Bonney's travels as she makes essential decisions about her future while honoring Kuma's sacrifices. Her pirate crew helps her mission while she tussles with the truth about her father's condition.
10. Cruel Fate - Kuma's Decision as a Father
Episode Number- 1134
Episode Rating- 9.2

The unfortunate conclusion of Kuma's story arc divulges the impossible choice he confronted between his own humanity and Bonney's survival. This episode analyzes the cruel events that forced Kuma to renounce his consciousness to ensure his daughter's future. Viewers witness the moment Kuma takes his fate while ensuring Bonney's safety via his transformation into a cyborg. The episode's touching impact solidifies its position as one of the highest-rated One Piece episodes that blend heartbreak with heroism.
These highest-rated One Piece episodes from 2025 present how mature storytelling can change animated entertainment into deep emotional experiences. The Kuma-Bonney storyline has redefined what comprises exceptional anime content. These episodes set new benchmarks for future One Piece content while heralding the series' legacy of convoluted character relationships.