Another huge power-up is the Gear 3 of Monkey D. Luffy, and it developed his fighting potential even more. This article covers the first appearance of Gear 3 and its subsequent progress throughout the anime.
First Mention of Gear 3
First mentioned by Luffy on Episode 288 of the One Piece anime, it was used in that very episode to break down a pair of giant steel doors at Tower of Justice during the Enies Lobby arc.
Full Visual Debut
Although it is first mentioned earlier, its full visual debut and explanation occur in Episode 304. This episode, titled "If I Can't Win, I Can't Protect Anyone! Gear 3 Activates," represents Luffy using the technique in his intense battle against Rob Lucci, a formidable member of CP9 .
Manga Introduction
In the case of manga readers, Gear 3 first made an appearance in Chapter 397. This was the same chapter the above-mentioned anime episodes adapted to, thereby staying faithful to the source material.
Description of Gear 3
Gear 3 is when Luffy blows up his bones, greatly increasing the size and strength of his limbs. He's then able to deliver extremely large and powerful attacks that are well beyond his normal power.
Initial Use and Effect
The first real fight in which Luffy truly used Gear 3 was the "Gomu Gomu no Gigant Pistol" against Rob Lucci. This very powerful attack, showing the real destructive power of Gear 3, places it at quite a different level from all the other techniques shown by Luffy until now.
Variations and Development
As the series progresses, Luffy develops several applications of Gear 3. One notable variation is the "Gomu Gomu no Gigant Gatling," where Luffy enlarges both fists to rain down a succession of giant punches. This in turn indicates the creativity of Luffy in applying his new power.
Drawbacks and Limitations
Initial use of Gear 3 had several drawbacks for Luffy, often leaving him temporarily shrunk and vulnerable after use. This created a strategic element of when and how Luffy could use the technique.
Significance in the Story
Most importantly, Gear 3 was unveiled during the Enies Lobby arc and therefore holds a special importance for Luffy's further state of development to match his progressively powerful enemies. It symbolizes the development further to become stronger and protect one's friends.
Evolution Post-Time Skip
After the series' two-year time skip, Luffy's use of Gear 3 becomes much more controlled. He seems to use it a lot more freely and without those really bad drawbacks previously seen during its early appearances, thus showing his growth as a fighter.
Visual shock of anime
Perhaps most striking would be in the Gear 3 anime adaptation, where this dramatic increase in size and power is vividly shown. This spectacular visual greatly enhances the effect of first showing Gear 3 and subsequent uses.