One Piece Chapter 1153 Review Leaves Fans Stunned

With Chapter 1153 of One Piece, titled The Birth of Loki, fans are left with several questions answered and new mysteries to ponder. This chapter takes us on a deep dive into King Harald’s past, revealing the essence of his legendary status as one of the most benevolent kings, despite his brash younger years. However, this history comes with a dark twist, as it ultimately leads to his death at the hands of his own son, Loki.

A Bold Detour into Elbaf’s Past

In this chapter, Eiichiro Oda takes a daring departure from battles and major Straw Hat moments, focusing instead on the rich lore of Elbaf. Readers are treated to a narrative filled with heartbreak, mythology, and political intrigue, all of which deepen the understanding of the giant kingdom.

The Marriage: A Tale of Love and Tradition

The story centers on Harald, a formidable Elbaf warrior, who falls in love with Ida, the mother of Hajrudin, during one of his journeys beyond the island. At that time, Ida is performing in a circus—not for fame, but to repay the villagers who once saved her life. Moved by her humility and strength, Harald brings her back to Elbaf, laying the groundwork for a more open and united kingdom.

However, love is not without its challenges in the world of giants. The elders of Elbaf pressure Harald into marrying Estridd, a woman of pure Elbaf lineage, emphasizing tradition and political purity. Estridd later gives birth to Loki but, horrified by his appearance and a dark omen about his future, abandons him. This decision leads to Loki being cast into the underworld, where he must learn to survive alone.

Loki’s Rise: Climbing from Shadows

The second half of the chapter depicts Loki’s brutal ascent from the shadows. Covered in blood and surrounded by fallen beasts, he claws his way up from the underworld, striving to reach the Elbaf castle above.

This chapter also ignites speculation about Loki’s potential Devil Fruit powers, with many fans theorizing that he may possess the Hebi Hebi no Mi, Model: Jörmungandr, inspired by the Norse world serpent. This theory aligns with Oda’s increasing incorporation of Norse mythology in the Elbaf arc, positioning Loki as a pivotal figure—perhaps even a future antagonist.

Fan Reactions: A Mixed Bag of Emotions

Reactions to Chapter 1153 have been intense and varied. Some fans praise the chapter for its rich storytelling and emotional depth, calling it one of the most significant lore dumps in recent years. Others draw parallels between Loki and Luffy, noting their shared status as outcasts on personal journeys.

A few fans speculate that Loki could become the true king of Elbaf, potentially challenging Luffy in the final saga. Additionally, this backstory adds complexity to Hajrudin, a character previously regarded as a mere side note after his brief alliance with the Straw Hats.

Conclusion: The Implications of Chapter 1153

One Piece Chapter 1153 was officially released in Japan on June 25, 2025, with English translations expected to be available soon on platforms like VIZ and Manga Plus.

Key Takeaways:

• Harald falls in love with Ida, Hajrudin’s mother, and brings her to Elbaf.
• The elders force him to marry Estridd, who later gives birth to Loki.
• Estridd abandons Loki after interpreting a dark omen.
• Loki survives in the underworld and begins his ascent up the Adam Tree.
• Fans speculate that Loki may possess the Jörmungandr Devil Fruit.

As the Elbaf arc unfolds, Chapter 1153 illustrates that One Piece is not merely preparing for more battles; it is weaving a complex mythos that underpins the impending final war. Loki, the forsaken prince, could very well emerge as a crucial figure on the battlefield.

Boruto: Two Blue Vortex Issue 23 Review: The Strong

In the latest installment of the fast-paced Boruto: Two Blue Vortex, issue 23, titled "The Strong," we witness an engaging confrontation between Boruto and Jura, while Konohamaru and the young ninjas struggle for survival.

The chapter kicks off with Mitsuki spotting Konohamaru after he has taken down a few Claw Grimes summoned by Ryu. While the Claw Grimes are intended to be formidable foes, they ultimately feel like fodder. Consequently, Mitsuki activating his Sage Mode to defeat them somewhat diminishes the significance of this powerful transformation. With Salad recently unlocking her Mangekyō Sharingan and Boruto operating on a different level, it’s clear that Mitsuki is in dire need of a power upgrade.

I appreciated Mitsuki's eagerness to assist Boruto against Jura after Konohamaru relayed the situation. Despite being influenced by Omnipotence, Mitsuki’s original bond with Boruto resurfaces with Boruto’s return. Mitsuki’s feelings for Boruto may not be reciprocated, but it’s crucial for a globally recognized franchise like Naruto/Boruto to explore and express these emotions.

With Konohamaru, Mitsuki, and an unconscious Salad possessing Matsuri’s Thorn Bulb, it makes sense for Araya to have already departed to use Ryu’s Thorn Bulb to free Shinki from the tree, while also carrying Yodo’s body. I still believe she will somehow survive this ordeal.

The battle between Boruto and Jura was particularly enjoyable due to the stark contrast in their power levels. Jura escalated from using mini-Bijuu Bombs to direct combat, resulting in Boruto taking a serious beating. It’s refreshing to see Boruto face a genuine challenge in battle, and while we know he won't die anytime soon, it was thrilling to watch him endure such punishment.

A significant revelation in "The Strong" involves Kashin Koji experiencing a new vision of a previously unseen future. All his past visions ended with Boruto’s death, which is why he hesitated to let Boruto intervene to save Konohamaru. However, it is revealed that this potential future has shifted due to a conversation Boruto had with Kawaki before leaving Konoha a few chapters back— the same conversation that motivated Kawaki to compel Amado to unlock his full potential.

 

As anticipated, with the limiters now lifted, Kawaki makes a dramatic entrance just in time to save Boruto from Jura’s lethal attack. Delta also joins the fray, separating from Kawaki to rendezvous with Konohamaru, Mitsuki, and the still unconscious Salad. Unlike Naruto, Boruto is portrayed as a genius akin to his grandfather Minato, making it satisfying to see him devise a plan impactful enough to alter Kashin Koji’s previous visions. This reinforces the narrative’s theme that the future is ever-changing and influenced by the choices one makes, highlighting that free will, to some degree, still exists in the Naruto/Boruto universe.

I'm thrilled about the prospect of Kawaki and Boruto teaming up against Jura. The fact that Jura survived being stabbed through the head by Kawaki raises intriguing questions about his power level!

What did you think of Boruto: Two Blue Vortex issue 23, "The Strong"? We’d love to hear your thoughts!

New Free Steam Game Released This Week: A Must-Try!

This week, a brand-new game has launched on the Valve storefront, and the best part? It's completely free! Early reviews from Steam users indicate that this game is quite impressive, boasting an outstanding 94% approval rating at the time of writing. While some may argue that its free status could skew this rating, it's important to note that offering a game for free often attracts a diverse player base, which can sometimes lead to mixed reviews—a phenomenon we've seen with other titles in the past.

The game in question is Down the Rabbit Hole Flattened, a 2D adaptation of the 2020 VR game, Down the Rabbit Hole. Unlike its predecessor, which is priced at $20, this new version is available at no cost. Interestingly, both games share the same 94% user rating on Steam. Developed by Cortopia Studios and published by Beyond Frames, Down the Rabbit Hole Flattened retains the charm of the original.

According to the official Steam description, “Down the Rabbit Hole is an adventure that unfolds in Wonderland before Alice's arrival. You will guide a girl in search of her lost pet, Patches, who has wandered into this enchanting realm. As you navigate her journey through a captivating diorama, you will explore the wonders of Wonderland, solve puzzles, uncover secrets, and make impactful choices that shape the story.”

Players looking to dive into Down the Rabbit Hole Flattened can expect a gameplay experience lasting around 2-3 hours. However, those using a Steam Deck should take note that the game's compatibility is currently marked as "Unknown."

As for the decision to offer this game for free, it likely stems from the niche appeal of a 2D version of a VR title from 2020. Additionally, it serves as a promotional strategy for the release of its follow-up, Escaping Wonderland, which also debuted on Steam this week.

One Piece Chapter 1152 Review: Unveiling Elbaf’s Dark History and Shanks’ Fateful Choices

Chapter 1152 of One Piece is brimming with emotional flashbacks, shocking revelations, and the beloved chaos that fans adore. This installment features Zoro's awakening of Conqueror’s Haki and delves into Shanks’ haunting past in Elbaf, marking a pivotal moment in the climax of the Egghead arc.

Zoro’s Conqueror’s Haki Confirmed

The chapter kicks off with a light-hearted cover story, showcasing Yamato gifting Kawamatsu a handmade hat from Otama. However, the mood swiftly shifts during an unexpected conversation between Luffy and Gaban. The former member of the Roger Pirates emphasizes that the Gorosei are not infallible and urges Luffy to enhance his Conqueror’s Haki.

In a surprising twist, Gaban discloses that more than one Straw Hat possesses this powerful ability. Sanji lights up at the prospect, but Gaban turns to Zoro, confirming his mastery of the Haki. Luffy, unfazed, hints that he has always recognized this potential in his first mate.

Luffy’s Outrageous Plan: Recruit Loki?!

In true Luffy fashion, the tension dissolves with a hilariously absurd proposal. While Hajrudin refuses to release Loki, Luffy suggests recruiting him into the Straw Hat crew. If Loki agrees to join, Hajrudin must let him go.

 

This idea sparks an uproar, with Loki, Hajrudin, Zoro, and Sanji vehemently objecting, creating a comedic standoff that perfectly captures the essence of One Piece.

Shanks and the “Bad Day” at Elbaf

The most significant revelation unfolds in Gaban’s flashback to Elbaf, 14 years ago, during a tumultuous event known as the “Bad Day.” Gaban, Shanks, and others find themselves amidst a political and personal upheaval. The memory begins with Loki discovering King Harald, stabbed by his own men after confronting him about his alliance with the World Government—the very force responsible for the downfall of Rocks D. Xebec.

Shanks, who had a personal bond with King Harald, yearns for one last meeting. Intriguingly, he reflects on a past dream of forming a pirate crew with Buggy but ultimately could not fulfill it. Gaban cryptically responds, “Because you’re the child chosen by fate.”

Most intriguingly, Shanks is depicted bearing a mysterious mark of the Abyss, a symbol linked to the Gorosei’s teleportation powers. Meanwhile, a shadowy figure seizes a legendary Devil Fruit amid the chaos in Elbaf.

Young Harald the Conqueror

As the chapter concludes, readers are transported 109 years into the past, witnessing a young and fierce Harald laying waste to a human kingdom, further enriching Elbaf’s violent and mythical history.

Next week promises even more revelations as the lore of Elbaf and the dynamics of the Straw Hats continue to unfold!

How to Train Your Dragon: A Box Office Triumph with $83.7 Million Debut

Universal Pictures' live-action rendition of the cherished animated classic, How to Train Your Dragon, soared to an impressive $83.7 million USD during its North American debut this past weekend. This strong performance not only claimed the top spot at the domestic box office but also ended Disney’s Lilo & Stitch's three-week reign at No. 1.

Directed by Dean DeBlois, who also helmed the original animated trilogy, the new How to Train Your Dragon revitalizes the touching tale of the unlikely bond between young Viking Hiccup (Mason Thames) and his dragon, Toothless, in a captivating live-action format. The film's opening weekend outperformed that of How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World (2019), which debuted with $55 million, signaling a significant expansion of the franchise’s audience.

 

On a global scale, the film's performance is even more impressive, amassing over $114.1 million USD internationally, leading to a worldwide total of $197.8 million USD. This remarkable start underscores the enduring popularity of the franchise and the effectiveness of its marketing campaign, which promised a visually stunning and emotionally engaging cinematic experience. Early audience feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, reflected in its “A” CinemaScore and 98% Rotten Tomatoes audience score, indicating strong word-of-mouth potential for sustained success throughout the summer.

The success of How to Train Your Dragon reinforces the trend of live-action adaptations achieving significant box office results, especially when crafted with care and guided by familiar creative talents. This triumph marks a major win for Universal and DreamWorks, launching the summer blockbuster season with a resounding success and proving that dragons still have plenty of fire left to ignite audiences.

Summary

• The live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon debuted with an impressive $83.7 million USD in North America, securing the No. 1 spot at the box office.
• The film achieved a remarkable global total of $197.8 million USD during its opening weekend, bolstered by an additional $114.1 million USD from international markets.
• Audience reception has been stellar, earning an “A” CinemaScore and a 98% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.

 

Teaser Trailer Announcement for 'Call of Duty: Black Ops 7'

Activision has kicked off the excitement for its next blockbuster with the unveiling of the Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 teaser trailer, which served as the grand finale of Microsoft’s Xbox Games Showcase last weekend.

The teaser establishes a “mind-bending” atmosphere, suggesting a rich and intricate storyline set in the year 2035. This timeline positions it as a direct sequel to both Black Ops 2 (set in 2025) and Black Ops 6 (set in the 1990s). Players will follow David Mason, voiced by Milo Ventimiglia, the son of original protagonist Alex Mason, as he and his team battle a “manipulative enemy who wields fear as their ultimate weapon.” The trailer also strongly hints at the return of the iconic villain Raul Menendez, indicating his enduring influence decades after the events of Black Ops 2.

 

 

Developed by Treyarch and Raven Software, Black Ops 7 marks a significant milestone as it is the first time Activision is launching back-to-back Black Ops titles. The game is confirmed for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, and notably, it will also be available on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. Additionally, it will be available on day one for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass. While the trailer did not provide a specific release date, historical trends suggest that Call of Duty titles typically launch in October or November, hinting at a potential late 2025 release.

 

Summary

• Activision has revealed an exhilarating cinematic teaser for Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 during the Xbox Games Showcase.
• The trailer hints at a “mind-bending” narrative featuring David Mason confronting a fear-weaponizing adversary, with strong indications of the return of the notorious villain Raul Menendez.
• A release date has yet to be confirmed.

Trivia:

• The Call of Duty franchise has sold over 400 million copies worldwide since its inception in 2003.
• Raul Menendez first appeared in Black Ops 2 and is remembered for his complex backstory and motivations, making him one of the series' most memorable antagonists.
• The Black Ops series is known for its engaging single-player campaigns and innovative multiplayer modes, often pushing the boundaries of storytelling in video games.

New Trailer for ‘Demon Slayer: Hinokami Chronicles 2’ Unveils Expanded Features

With less than two months to go until its release, SEGA has unveiled an exciting new trailer for Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- The Hinokami Chronicles 2. This latest preview showcases a variety of new and improved features that expand both the story and gameplay mechanics.

Players will have the opportunity to engage with "The Path of a Demon Slayer," a mode that revisits pivotal battles spanning from the Unwavering Resolve Arc to the Mugen Train Arc. The introduction of a "Gear System" allows for extensive customization, enabling players to equip up to three items that grant various enhancements, such as increased resistance to poison and gradual health regeneration. Additionally, the "Training Paths" mode challenges players to face off against the Hashiras, progressing through tournament brackets with evolving victory conditions that promise dynamic and engaging combat scenarios.

The trailer also introduces "Dual Ultimates," an exhilarating new feature that unlocks powerful team-based attacks when specific character combinations are successfully executed. Players can further enhance their experience by increasing Mastery levels for different characters, unlocking a variety of cosmetic rewards, including stickers, background images, and Slayer ID customizations, which encourage deeper engagement with the character roster.

With upgraded combat mechanics and more strategic elements, Hinokami Chronicles 2 aims to provide a more immersive and refined experience than its predecessor. Scheduled for release on August 5, 2025, the game will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam.

Overview

• The latest trailer for Demon Slayer: Hinokami Chronicles 2 provides insights into an enriched storyline and new gameplay features.
• New modes, including "The Path of a Demon Slayer" and "Training Paths," enhance combat dynamics and narrative depth.

 

Riri Williams Makes Her MCU Comeback in the New 'Ironheart' Official Trailer

Marvel has released an exciting new trailer for its eagerly awaited series Ironheart, offering fans an exhilarating glimpse into Riri Williams’ journey as a hero. The footage showcases her extraordinary technological prowess while introducing an unexpected new dimension: magic.

The trailer opens with a heartfelt tribute to Tony Stark, featuring Dominique Thorne’s Riri Williams as she diligently crafts her suit, reminiscent of Iron Man's iconic origin. However, the story takes a bold turn as Ironheart explores the intersection of cutting-edge technology and the enigmatic world of magic. Viewers are treated to scenes of Riri drawing red transmutation circles and imbuing her suit with mystical energies, a shift largely driven by her formidable foe, Parker Robbins, also known as The Hood (played by Anthony Ramos), whose abilities are steeped in dark magic.

 

Set in the aftermath of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, the series follows Riri as she returns to her hometown of Chicago, eager to leave her mark on the world. However, her ambitions soon lead her into a confrontation with The Hood, where technology collides with the supernatural. The trailer hints at a deeply personal narrative for Riri, delving into her background and the struggles of being a brilliant inventor without the financial backing of a billionaire. Additionally, it introduces her new AI companion, N.A.T.A.L.I.E., a nod to her childhood friend from the comics.

Ironheart is set to premiere on Disney+ on June 24, 2025, with the first three episodes available for streaming simultaneously. As the final installment of Marvel’s Phase 5, this six-episode limited series promises a captivating blend of sci-fi action and mystical adventure.

Overview

• Marvel Studios unveils the official trailer for Ironheart.
• The new footage highlights Riri Williams’ technological brilliance intertwined with magical elements, influenced by the villain The Hood.
• This six-episode limited series, concluding Marvel’s Phase 5, will debut its first three episodes globally on Disney+ on June 24, 2025.

 

One Piece: Oda Reveals the Ultimate Power in the Series

As One Piece enters its Final Saga, fans are acutely aware of the stakes involved. The Elbaf arc marks a significant development in this saga, particularly with the introduction of Imu, the greatest villain in the series. The long-standing debate between Zoro and Sanji reaches a resolution in the latest chapter of One Piece.

Imu's True Power Exceeds Haki and Devil Fruit Abilities

While it's well-known that Imu possesses formidable Haki and a Devil Fruit ability, their true power transcends these conventional strengths. Imu's abilities are of a magical nature, intricately linked to the National Treasure of Marijoa, a concept that Oda hinted at during the Dressrosa arc.

The National Treasure of Marijoa: The Ultimate Power in One Piece

The National Treasure of Marijoa, as its name implies, is a treasure located in the Holy Land of the Celestial Dragons. This treasure has existed for a considerable time, and Doflamingo once hinted at its existence. Intriguingly, the National Treasure could be Imu themselves or the extraordinary powers they showcased in chapter 1150.

Doflamingo once remarked,
"If only I had the Ope Ope no Mi for myself on that fateful day, I could have claimed the National Treasure of Marijoa!"

In Doflamingo's view, possessing the Ope Ope no Mi would have enabled him to conquer the world and assume the title of King, a role that fans recognize Imu already embodies. While Oda has not explicitly defined what the National Treasure entails, it is undoubtedly linked to Imu—either as the individual or the abilities they wield.

Imu's Magical Abilities

"I will show thee the dominance of a God!" — Imu

Hints suggest that Luffy's fate may take a dark turn by the end of One Piece, and Oda has dropped significant clues regarding this possibility. Imu is portrayed with a range of powers that include demonic abilities, the capacity to summon various weapons, and even the ability to grant immortality and immense physical strength through what is described as the Power of Evil.

In summary, the true essence of power in One Piece lies not just in Haki or Devil Fruits, but in the enigmatic National Treasure of Marijoa and the extraordinary abilities of Imu.

Kaiju No. 8 Manga Concludes in Just Two Chapters

On Friday, Shueisha's Shonen Jump+ website announced that Naoya Matsumoto's acclaimed manga, Kaiju No. 8, is set to conclude in just two chapters. The penultimate chapter (128) will be released on June 20, followed by the final chapter (129).

Matsumoto first launched Kaiju No. 8 in July 2020 on the Shonen Jump+ platform. The series' 15th compiled volume was published by Shueisha on March 4.

In English, Viz Media is releasing the manga both digitally and in print. Additionally, Shueisha offers the series on its MANGA Plus service under the title Monster #8, describing the narrative as follows:

"A man stuck in a job far removed from his childhood dreams finds himself in an unexpected predicament… Transforming into a monster, he sets out once more to achieve his lifelong aspirations!"

The manga has also inspired a television anime that debuted on TV Tokyo in April 2024, running for 12 episodes. Crunchyroll provided streaming for the anime with English subtitles and an English dub. Notably, the episodes were streamed in real-time on X (formerly Twitter) as they aired in Japan.

 

Fans can look forward to the second season of the anime, which is scheduled to premiere in July 2025, with Crunchyroll streaming the new episodes.

In addition, Crunchyroll and Sony Pictures Entertainment hosted a limited theatrical release of a compilation film titled Kaiju No. 8: Mission Recon, showcasing the first season of the anime. The screenings took place in the United States and Canada on April 13, 14, and 16, featuring both Japanese versions with English subtitles and an English dub.

The Kaiju No. 8 franchise is also expanding with the upcoming release of Kaiju No. 8 the Game, a mobile and PC game set to launch on August 31 for iOS, Android, and PC via Steam.

Trivia about Kaiju No. 8

1. Launch Date: The manga was first released on July 2020.
2. Final Chapters: The series will end with chapter 129, set to release on June 20, 2025.
3. Anime Adaptation: The anime adaptation premiered in April 2024 and consists of 12 episodes.
4. Streaming Platforms: Crunchyroll streamed the anime with both subtitles and an English dub.
5. Theatrical Release: A compilation film of the first season was screened in select theaters in April 2025.
6. Game Release: The franchise will also feature a game launching on August 31, 2025.
7. MANGA Plus: The manga is available on Shueisha's MANGA Plus under the title Monster #8.