Episode 974 | One Piece

According to reviews from MyNakama , the episode is praised for several creative choices:

The anime adds "filmstrip" flashbacks of Oden’s adventures with Whitebeard and Roger, deepening the impact of his death.

Knowing he cannot survive the bullets, Oden uses his final strength to throw the plank and his retainers to safety, ordering them to "Open the borders of Wano". One Piece Episode 974

After hearing the truth of Oden's five-year "foolish" dancing from Shinobu, the citizens of Wano cheer for him in his final moments, completing his iconic catchphrase: "Oden wouldn't be oden... if it wasn't boiled!" . Notable Production Highlights

cemented as a "Legend" whose death sparks the 20-year rebellion. According to reviews from MyNakama , the episode

Denounces the Oniwabanshu and pledges her loyalty to the Kozuki family after revealing Oden's secret.

Oden successfully survives 60 minutes in the boiling oil while holding his nine retainers aloft on a massive wooden plank. if it wasn't boiled

Kaido shows a final sign of respect by killing the hag Higurashi (who interfered in their duel) before shooting Oden in the head. Oden dies with a smile as he sinks into the oil.