Ranking the Worst Generation in One Piece Based on Morality

Summary of the Worst Generation

Marshall D. Teach, known as Blackbeard, stands out as the most ruthless pirate within the Worst Generation, demonstrating a readiness to deceive and kill for the sake of power.
Eustass Kid embodies brutality, showing little regard for collateral damage, solidifying his position among the most notorious pirates.
Zoro, while typically reserved, reflects a deeply honorable character, earning recognition as one of the more principled members of this infamous group.

The term “Worst Generation”refers to a group of pirates largely operating independently, with most members being eleven super rookies who achieved substantial bounties exceeding 100,000,000 belly prior to their arrival at Sabaody Archipelago. The twelfth member, Marshall D. Teach, entered this elite circle due to his notoriety following the capture of the renowned Portgas D. Ace.

While they share this ominous designation, it is crucial to highlight the stark contrasts in their moral compasses and individual aspirations. Despite occasional collaborations, long-term alliances among these pirates are rare. This article explores the diverse moral standings of the Worst Generation’s members.

12. Marshall D. Teach

The Worst of the Worst Generation

Blackbeard from One Piece with Red Eyes Clenching His Fist

Debut: Chapter 223 (Manga), Episode 146 (Anime)
Crew: Blackbeard Pirates (Captain/Admiral); Formerly of Whitebeard Pirates

Marshall D. Teach, or Blackbeard, is arguably the most morally bankrupt character in the series. His willingness to abandon any sense of ethics becomes evident through his relentless pursuit of obscured ambitions. Joining the Whitebeard Pirates initially piqued his interest only because he sought a specific Devil Fruit. However, Teach’s drive led him to murder Thatch, a fellow crew member, to seize the prize he had coveted, thus violating Whitebeard’s cardinal rule against murdering crewmates.

Following that heinous act, Teach formed his pirate crew and gained notoriety by capturing Ace, later leveraging this achievement to join the Seven Warlords of the Sea. He utilized this position to infiltrate Impel Down, where he orchestrated the release of several high-profile criminals. Teach’s audacity peaked during the Summit War, where he assassinated Whitebeard, the very man who had cared for him and treated him like a son, and usurped the powers of the fallen captain’s Devil Fruit.

Teach’s morality barely exists; he views his crew as mere tools for personal gain. This was illustrated when he deceived ex-marine admiral Kuzan into joining him by presenting their partnership as a necessity rather than a genuine alliance. His track record includes the physical abuse of crew members like Doc Q and Stronger, alongside orchestrating the targeted killings of unknown Devil Fruit users.

11. Eustace Kid

A Truly Brutal Pirate

Debut: Chapter 498 (Manga), Episode 392 (Anime)
Crew: Kid Pirates (Captain)

Eustass Kid’s notoriety stems from his extreme brutality, which occasionally surpasses that of his rivals in the Worst Generation. Though he shares a common goal with Luffy to seek the One Piece and liberate his crew, his methods often lead to excessive collateral damage. Quick to anger, Kid’s violent outbursts result in civilian casualties, contributing to his intimidating bounty.

Kid’s aggressive behavior recently culminated in his defeat at the hands of Shanks, who anticipated the devastation his actions would unleash on Elbaf. This encounter highlighted the reckless nature of Kid’s behavior; while he demonstrates disdain for the World Government and World Nobles, it’s his violent past that raises deep concerns about his moral standing.

10. Killer

Massacre Soldier

Debut: Chapter 498 (Manga), Episode 392 (Anime)
Crew: Kid Pirates

Killer stands out as one of the few non-captains within the Worst Generation, earning his place through acts of widespread destruction. He has even served as an assassin for Wano’s ruthless shogun, Kurozumi Orochi, although his attempt to execute a young girl named Toko was thwarted. Despite this violent past, Killer displays a slightly more temperate side, occasionally attempting to rein in Kid’s more reckless tendencies.

The consumption of a defective SMILE Devil Fruit resulted in Killer losing his swimming ability, showcasing the extreme sacrifices he has made for his crew. His moral alignment largely mirrors Kid’s but with nuanced differences that suggest a more tactical disposition when it comes to violence.

9. Scratchmen Apoo

Conniving Opportunist

Debut: Chapter 498 (Manga), Episode 392 (Anime)
Crew: Beasts Pirates, On Air Pirates (Captain)

Scratchmen Apoo is defined by his cunning, successfully tricking the Kid and Hawkins Pirates into an alliance aimed at defeating Kaido. Beneath this guise of cooperation lies his true intention: assimilating both crews into the Beasts Pirates. Though Apoo is not as overtly malicious as his peers, his readiness to ally with cruel individuals and betray others to secure advantageous positions reveals a manipulative side.

While he does not revel in cruelty, Apoo’s actions indicate a significant departure from steadfast morals, marking him as a devious strategic player amid the chaos of the Worst Generation.

8. Basil Hawkins

Card-Carrying Cruelty

Debut: Chapter 498 (Manga), Episode 392 (Anime)
Crew: Beasts Pirates, Hawkins Pirates (Captain)

Basil Hawkins exemplifies a complex moral landscape, approaching actions pragmatically while allowing the whims of his Devil Fruit abilities to dictate his choices. His decision to join the Beasts Pirates stemmed from a survival instinct rather than an allegiance to their violent nature.

Hawkins’s powers enable him to transfer pain, making him both a strategist in battle and a ruthless adversary in negotiations. He often places allies in danger to ensure his own safety, showcasing a willingness to sacrifice others. While he may not engage in all-out brutality, his willingness to exploit the vulnerabilities of his companions demonstrates the chilling depth of his moral flexibility.

7. Capone Bege

Not a Good Fella

Debut: Chapter 498 (Manga), Episode 392 (Anime)
Crew: Fire Tank Pirates (Captain); Formerly of Big Mom Pirates

Capone Bege embodies the archetype of a gangster turned pirate, thriving on the disarray he creates among rival factions. His penchant for assassination and betrayal is evident, as he schemed his way out of precarious alliances, notably with Big Mom, after an attempted coup.

Bege is not as overtly violent as some of his counterparts but does exploit his enemies’ weaknesses with ruthless precision. His strategic mind allows him to operate under a code that prioritizes successful operations while maintaining decorum with those he respects, whether friend or foe. Despite his violent tendencies, he demonstrates moments of care for his family and crewmates, adding layers to his ruthless persona.

6. X Drake

Double Agent

Debut: Chapter 498 (Manga), Episode 392 (Anime)
Crew: Drake Pirates (Captain; Undercover Role); Formerly of Beasts Pirates

X Drake exists in an ambiguous space, functioning as an undercover marine gathering intelligence while masquerading as a pirate. His background includes rising through the ranks of the Beasts Pirates, where he committed acts of violence under Kaido’s orders, revealing a darker facet to his character.

Drake’s duality presents a tantalizing tension, as he engages in both piracy and marine operations. His motives remain shrouded in mystery, leading to a complex narrative that continues to unfold throughout the arcs.

5. Trafalgar D. Water Law

A Pirate With a Heart and Then Some

Debut: Chapter 498 (Manga), Episode 392 (Anime)
Crew: Heart Pirates (Captain)

Trafalgar Law forged an alliance with Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates to pursue shared objectives, navigating a perilous journey that ultimately led to his crew’s devastating defeat at the hands of Blackbeard. Law’s willingness to commit morally ambiguous acts, including employing his Devil Fruit powers to manipulate lives, places him at a crossroads between heroism and villainy.

His actions in delivering the hearts of one hundred pirates to the World Government in exchange for becoming a warlord further complicate his moral standing. Although he showcases moments of heroism, such as saving Luffy, the grim context surrounding his actions leads to a reexamination of his character trajectory.

4. Urouge

A Blank Slate

Debut: Chapter 498 (Manga), Episode 392 (Anime)
Crew: Fallen Monk Pirates (Captain)

Urouge is a character shrouded in enigma; his morality remains largely unproven. Presenting a facade of cheerfulness, akin to Luffy, Urouge has shown kindness even in combat, notably praying for Kaido’s well-being during a vulnerable moment.

While he has participated in conflicts, Urouge has yet to fully reveal his moral compass, indicating potential for both cruelty and compassion that could surface in future arcs.

3. Jewelry Bonney

Appropriately Childish

Debut: Chapter 498 (Manga), Episode 392 (Anime)
Crew: Bonney Pirates

Initially portrayed as a troublesome and self-serving individual, Jewelry Bonney’s character gains depth upon the revelation of her true age. As the youngest member of the Worst Generation, Bonney’s actions and motivations are shaped by her tragic backstory and youthful innocence.

Her saving of Zoro from execution highlights an unexpected moral fiber, while her fierce determination to confront the oppressive forces represented by figures like Vegapunk reveals a growing awareness of the injustices in her world.

2. Roronoa Zoro

Unpleasant But Heroic

Debut: Chapter 3 (Manga), Episode 1 (Anime)
Crew: Straw Hat Pirates

Roronoa Zoro, Luffy’s first crewmate, stands as a paradox. While his demeanor might be harsh and distant, his underlying sense of honor and morality reveals a character deeply committed to protecting the vulnerable. Zoro has intervened multiple times to defend those who cannot defend themselves, exemplifying a profound moral code.

His loyalty to Luffy and the rest of the crew remains steadfast, often showcasing a blend of discipline and respect for those around him. Though he grapples with internal conflicts about moral expectations, Zoro’s bravery and self-sacrifice mark him as one of the most principled members of the Worst Generation.

1. Monkey D. Luffy

Kindness Before Reason

Debut: Chapter 1 (Manga), Episode 1 (Anime)
Crew: Straw Hat Pirates (Captain)

At a young age, Monkey D. Luffy embodies a commitment to kindness that transcends typical pirate behavior. His desire to assist anyone in distress, be they crewmates or strangers, showcases his profound sense of justice.

Luffy’s journey reflects a quest for freedom, as he actively liberates oppressed territories throughout his adventures. Although sometimes displaying selfish tendencies, these are rarely at the expense of others’ suffering. Luffy’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding those in need solidifies his reputation as the most moral figure within the Worst Generation.

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