Get ready to dive into a thrilling world of samurai, dragons, and supernatural mayhem, because Eiichiro Oda’s “Monsters” has finally arrived in anime form! This one-shot manga, released in 1994 and long beloved by One Piece fans, has come to life in a stunning OVA directed by the acclaimed Sunghoo Park (Jujutsu Kaisen, Jujutsu Kaisen 0).

A Legendary Samurai’s Tale

The story follows Ryuma, a legendary samurai from Wano Country (yes, One Piece fans, that Wano Country!) known as the “Zombie Slayer.” Years before Luffy’s adventures, Ryuma finds himself drawn into a vortex of chaos when a stolen dragon horn unleashes a monstrous entity upon a peaceful village. With his trusty blade, Shusui, in hand, Ryuma must confront not only the rampaging beast but also his own inner demons.

“Monsters” is more than just eye candy. The story delves into themes of duty, sacrifice, and the consequences of wielding immense power. Ryuma’s journey is not just about slaying monsters; it’s about confronting his past and grappling with the burdens of his legacy. For One Piece fans, “Monsters” offers a unique glimpse into the world before Luffy set sail. Ryuma’s story is canon, adding another layer of depth and intrigue to the One Piece lore. You might even spot some familiar faces, like a certain swordsman with a penchant for moss balls.

Monsters OVA Release Date

The Monsters OVA will release January 21st, 2024. It will be a one episode release and will be streaming on Crunchyroll upon release. You can watch the exclusive teaser by clicking the video below.