Ace was killed off in One Piece primarily because his death was a crucial turning point necessary for the story's advancement and the protagonist's growth.
His demise served multiple vital purposes within the narrative:
- Luffy's Development: Ace's death acted as a powerful catalyst, compelling Monkey D. Luffy to recognize his own weaknesses and the immense challenges of the Grand Line's second half, the New World. This tragic event pushed Luffy to undergo significant training and become strong enough to survive the perilous journey ahead and protect his friends.
- Narrative Stakes and Tension: The decision to kill off a prominent and beloved character like Ace dramatically informed the audience that One Piece was capable of truly high stakes. It demonstrated that characters, regardless of their popularity or importance, could face real consequences, thereby heightening the dramatic tension and emotional impact of future conflicts.
- Plot Progression: Ace's death cleared the path for new story arcs, character motivations, and power-ups, fundamentally reshaping Luffy's immediate goals and long-term ambitions within the pirate world. While the execution of his death could be debated by fans, its necessity for the overarching plot was undeniable.
