Bandai Namco Announces New DLC Characters for One Piece Pirate Warriors 4

What's Happening?

Bandai Namco Entertainment has revealed new details about upcoming downloadable content (DLC) for its game One Piece Pirate Warriors 4 during the One Piece Day event. The game, which has sold over 4 million units worldwide, will introduce new characters in its seventh and eighth DLC packs. Character Pack 7 will feature CP0 Rob Lucci and two other characters yet to be announced, along with new costumes, and is set to launch this fall. Character Pack 8, scheduled for early 2026, will include Eneru, King, and Z, who were selected through a fan vote from a list of 23 characters. Additionally, the game's Character Pass 3 will be released on August 11, adding Shanks' "Divine Departure" move as a bonus. The game, originally released in 2020, is available on multiple platforms including PS4, Xbox One, and Switch, and will soon be available on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S with free upgrades for existing players.

Why It's Important?

The announcement of new DLC characters for One Piece Pirate Warriors 4 is significant for fans of the franchise and the gaming industry. It highlights the ongoing popularity and commercial success of the One Piece series, which continues to engage its audience through interactive media. The introduction of fan-voted characters demonstrates Bandai Namco's commitment to community engagement and responsiveness to player preferences. This strategy not only enhances the gaming experience but also strengthens the brand's market position by maintaining player interest and expanding its user base. The availability of free upgrades for next-generation consoles further underscores the company's dedication to providing value to its customers, potentially boosting sales and player retention.

What's Next?

As the release dates for the new DLC packs approach, players can anticipate further announcements regarding the unrevealed characters in Character Pack 7. The gaming community may also see increased promotional activities and events leading up to the launch of Character Pack 8 in early 2026. Bandai Namco is likely to continue leveraging fan engagement through surveys and votes to shape future content, fostering a collaborative relationship with its audience. Additionally, the release of Character Pass 3 on August 11 will likely generate renewed interest and activity within the game's community, potentially influencing future updates and expansions.