One Piece Introduces Maki: New Power System That Counters

One Piece has long operated on two foundational power systems that shaped the entire narrative: Devil Fruits, introduced at the manga's inception in 1997, and Haki, which expanded the lore significantly when it debuted in 2010. Now, as the series enters its Final Saga, creator Eiichiro Oda has unveiled a third power system that fundamentally alters the balance of strength in the world.

The new power system, called Maki or Omen, made its first appearance in Chapter 1180, released in April 2026. The ability manifested as black flames wielded by Nerona Imu during combat on Elbaf. While initially mysterious, the subsequent chapter officially confirmed Maki as a distinct power system with capabilities that rival or exceed both Haki and Devil Fruit abilities. According to Imu's explanation, Maki exists within all living things, much like Haki, but only those who pursue power through corruption can access this demonic form.

What distinguishes Maki from existing power systems is its direct opposition to Conqueror's Haki, the strongest variant of Haki. This relationship was confirmed in Chapter 1194, establishing Maki as the definitive counter to the Color of the Supreme King. The confirmation came during intense combat, demonstrating that Maki can neutralize even the most formidable applications of Conqueror's Haki. This revelation positions Maki not merely as an alternative power source but as a necessary counterbalance to the previously dominant Haki system.

Beyond its defensive capabilities, Maki offers multifaceted applications in combat. Imu has demonstrated using it both offensively and defensively, effortlessly warding off attacks infused with lightning dragon powers and Conqueror's Haki simultaneously. The power also provides supplementary benefits to users, including enhanced physical strength, accelerated regeneration, and extended lifespan. Perhaps most significantly, Maki grants access to ancient weapons wielded by the twenty kings who opposed the Ancient Kingdom eight centuries ago. Holy Knights Sommers and Killingham, who received Maki from Imu, gained access to legendary weapons including Gram and Longinus, amplifying their combat effectiveness far beyond their base capabilities.

Imu possesses the unique ability to bestow Maki to other individuals, effectively spreading this power system throughout the World Government's elite forces. Currently, only three confirmed Maki users exist: Imu himself and the two Holy Knights he empowered. However, as the story progresses, Imu is expected to grant Maki to increasingly powerful fighters, which will substantially expand the scope and demonstrated potential of this emerging power system. Each new user will likely reveal additional capabilities and access to different ancient weapons, deepening the complexity of Maki-based combat.

A critical factor affecting Maki's current strength is Imu's physical condition. According to Chapter 1182, Imu is operating under significant limitations, with his body unable to fully sustain his presence in the outside world. This nerf substantially constrains the full potential of Maki as currently displayed. Once Imu overcomes these restrictions and reaches complete strength, the power system's true capabilities will become apparent. The limited manifestations already visible are sufficient to counter Conqueror's Haki and overwhelm multiple powerful opponents, suggesting that Maki at full capacity will represent an unprecedented threat level in the series.

The introduction of Maki marks a significant narrative shift for One Piece's Final Saga. By establishing a power system that directly counters the previously unmatched Conqueror's Haki, Oda has created new strategic possibilities for conflict and character development. As more users gain access to Maki and Imu reaches his full potential, this power system will likely play a central role in determining the outcome of major battles ahead. The revelation also suggests that the series' power hierarchy will undergo substantial reorganization, with Maki users potentially reshaping the balance of power in the world.