One Piece chapter 1162 closes the book on Yamato's Wano cover story arc, honoring what could be the character's final moments in the secluded nation. The end of this subplot comes at a narratively suitable time, with the Straw Hats deep into their Elbaf adventure and closing what appears to be a major conflict. Yamato's storyline reaching its finale now suggests Oda is clearing the path for their next move.
The cover story's ending directly points toward Yamato finally chasing their dream of sailing the seas. With Yamato's guardian duties apparently fulfilled and Wano stabilized, nothing prevents them from departing to catch up with Luffy's crew. Their arrival at Elbaf during the arc's climax would add a fourth Conqueror's Haki user to the Straw Hat forces, fundamentally turning the power dynamics heading into the series' endgame.

Yamato's determination to stay in Wano initially made tactical sense. They had the Guardian Deity Devil Fruit, making them rudimentary for safeguarding the nation from external threats. With Wano's borders open and weak, having someone of Yamato's strength was crucial.
However, One Piece chapter 1162 seems to mark the end of this protecting phase. The cover story's ending suggests Wano has stabilized enough for Yamato to pursue their dreams. This narrative change opens the door for them to finally set sail.
The cover story itself provided crucial context. While specific details varied, the conclusion shown in One Piece chapter 1162 depicted a resolution to immediate Wano concerns. This narrative closure gives Yamato the freedom to leave without abandoning their duties.
Oda typically uses cover stories to advance subplots without dedicating main chapter pages. Concluding Yamato's story through this method suggests their role in Wano's immediate post-arc stability has concluded. The focus shifts to what comes next.
Why Now Makes Perfect Sense for Yamato in One Piece Chapter 1162

The timing of Yamato's potential departure aligns with several story developments. The Straw Hats are currently in Elbaf, approaching what many expect will be a major conflict. Having Yamato arrive during the arc's climax would be a pattern of strategic ally arrivals.
One Piece chapter 1162 strategically positions this possibility. Yamato has expressed admiration for Kozuki Oden and his adventures since their introduction. Following in Oden's footsteps by joining Luffy's crew represents the natural evolution of their character arc.
Adding Yamato would give the Straw Hats unprecedented offensive power. They would become the crew's fourth member capable of Conqueror's Haki infusion, joining Luffy, Zoro, and potentially other powerful allies. This concentration of strength becomes increasingly necessary as the crew approaches the series' endgame.
The strategic worth cannot be exaggerated. With battles against Yonko, Admirals, and the World Government looming, having multiple Conqueror's Haki users provides crucial benefits. Yamato's combat capabilities would instantly boost the crew's overall threat level.
Conclusion: The Path Forward

Whether Yamato joins permanently or temporarily remains speculation. However, One Piece chapter 1162 clearly signals a shift in their story. The cover story's conclusion wasn't arbitrary; it serves a narrative purpose.
The most possible scenario implicates Yamato leaving Wano soon, perhaps arriving at Elbaf during a pressing moment. Whether they become an official crew member or a powerful ally, their reunion with Luffy seems unavoidable. The stage is set for them to eventually achieve their dream of adventure while keeping their connection to Wano via eventual return or remote security.
Time will reveal Oda's plans, but the evidence suggests exciting developments ahead. Those waiting for Yamato's journey can find encouragement in these One Piece chapter 1162 story developments.