Episode 688 of One Piece aired in Japan on . It is a central chapter in the massive Dressrosa Arc , focusing on Luffy and Law's ascent toward the palace to confront Doflamingo. Summary of Key Plot Points
: Their eccentric duel continues at the SMILE Factory.
Reviewers generally viewed this as a setup episode that builds tension for the final Dressrosa showdown. One Piece Episode 688
: Rebecca, Robin, and Bartolomeo use an "unorthodox" travel method provided by the Tontattas: flying through the air by holding onto stag beetles .
: While riding his bull, Ucy, Luffy is approached by the Funk Brothers (Bobby and Kelly), who point him toward an underground tunnel shortcut to reach Doflamingo. However, this is revealed as a betrayal to claim Doflamingo’s bounty; Luffy and Law are lured into a dead end flooded with water where Doflamingo himself appears to confront them. Episode 688 of One Piece aired in Japan on
: Zoro continues his struggle against the massive stone-merged executive. Critical Reception
: The episode checks in on other major skirmishes across Dressrosa: Reviewers generally viewed this as a setup episode
: The "beetle flight" sequence is often cited for its unique animation and creative travel method. The ending cliffhanger with Doflamingo's appearance was highly praised for its sudden shift in tone.