The animation quality in One Piece has noticeably gotten better over time, especially in the Wano Country arc. Some scenes have become iconic for fans due to their impressive animation.
However, animator Sota Shigetsugu recently spoke out about issues in the sound effects department. He criticized their work, saying it was seriously lacking, and even described it as “devastatingly bad.”
Particularly, episodes featuring Monkey D. Luffy using Gear 5 had disappointing sound effects, affecting how fans enjoyed the show.
Animator Sota Shigetsugu Calls for Improved Sound Design in One Piece Anime
Sota Shigetsugu, the talented animator behind some pivotal moments in the One Piece anime adaptation, has earned acclaim for his stellar contributions. His work on key episodes has been instrumental in elevating the quality of the viewing experience, particularly evident in recent story arcs.
While animation receives much of the spotlight, sound effects (SFX) are equally vital in crafting an immersive atmosphere for viewers. Shigetsugu, recognizing the significance of sound design, recently addressed concerns about its execution. In a candid discussion on X platform, he expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of sound design in the series.
According to Shigetsugu, the disparity between exceptional animation and subpar sound design is glaringly evident, significantly impacting the audience’s enjoyment.
He lamented the noticeable shortcomings in sound quality, emphasizing the detrimental effect it has on the overall viewing experience. In a translated excerpt shared by X user @Hatchofly_, Shigetsugu’s sentiments are articulated:
“The sound in One Piece is devastatingly bad, so I hope something is done about it as soon as possible… This episode was really sad because of the difference between the overwhelming animation and the terrible sound.”
His words underscore the critical role that sound design plays in complementing the visual elements of the anime. Shigetsugu’s critique highlights the need for improvement in the sound department to maintain consistency and uphold the high standards set by the animation team.
As fans eagerly anticipate future episodes of One Piece, Shigetsugu’s insights serve as a reminder of the importance of holistic production quality in delivering a truly attracting viewing experience.
It is hoped that his feedback will prompt positive changes to ensure that both animation and sound design work harmoniously to immerse audiences in the One Piece.
Fans Call for Enhanced Sound Design in One Piece Anime to Match Top-tier Animation
The disparity between top-tier animation and poor sound design significantly diminishes the efforts of the animation team, eventually detracting from the overall viewing experience.
This discrepancy prompted the One Piece animator to express hope for improvements from the SFX team in recent episodes. The current sound design appears outdated, failing to align with the high standards expected by fans and industry professionals alike.
Fans have voiced concerns that the sound effects utilized in recent episodes feel recycled, reminiscent of earlier series like Dragon Ball. Such outdated sound choices have proven to be distracting for viewers, with some resorting to watching scenes from the Wano Country arc without sound altogether.
Given the stature of both the anime and its production studio, expectations for quality are understandably high. With Toei Animation’s resources and the immense popularity of One Piece, there is a rightful demand for superior standards in sound design.
As arguably the most significant shonen anime series, One Piece holds substantial financial sway for the animation studio. Therefore, it’s imperative that the sound design evolves to match the advanced animation techniques employed in modern productions.
Using sound effects reminiscent of the early 90s clashes with the current visual sophistication, highlighting the urgent need for improvement in this crucial aspect of the series.
