In One Piece, the battle at Elbaph has descended into unprecedented chaos. While Imu is busy dealing with Brook, Roronoa Zoro showcases his tactical genius by uncovering the weakness of the Domi Reversi technique.
Zoro quickly grasps how Domi Reversi works. Anyone caught between victims of this attack gets “flipped” and transformed into a demon, much like flipping pieces in the game Othello. Realizing a direct assault is a suicide trap, the pirate hunter strikes from above. As a result, Dorry and Brogy, currently under control, launch a counterattack but end up crashing into each other as Zoro dodges.
Though this seems like a tactical accident, a closer look reveals it could be the key to turning the tide at Elbaph.
1. The “Classic Memory”, Imu’s Achilles’ Heel?
Chapter 1173 offers a crucial hint: Imu’s control isn’t absolute. Powerful memories from the past can shake this manipulation.
We saw this with Gunko. When Brook’s music and words touched memories of Princess Shuri, Imu’s control immediately faltered. This confirms the victims’ true identities remain intact. So, what is the deepest memory for Dorry and Brogy? It’s none other than their century-long deadly duel.
2. When Two “Black Pieces” Eliminate Each Other
Victims of Domi Reversi often have incredible healing abilities like the Holy Knights. So, Dorry and Brogy getting back up after colliding is expected. But the more intriguing scenario is what happens if, upon waking, their instincts drive them to resume their century-old fight?
If Zoro’s accidental strike awakens their relentless fighting spirit from Little Garden, Imu’s control could be disrupted. This would be a devastating blow to Imu’s plan as his strongest pieces at Elbaph turn on each other.
3. Breaking the Perfect Othello Formation
The Domi Reversi technique relies on tight team coordination to trap and convert opponents. Their current target is Elder Jarul. However, if the leaders Dorry and Brogy suddenly break formation to settle personal scores, Imu’s entire system will collapse.
In a game like Othello, just a few misplaced pieces can shatter a dominant position instantly. This chaos not only eases the pressure on Elder Jarul but also creates a precious window for the Straw Hat crew to break the curse once and for all.
4. Zoro’s Unintentional Yet Strategic Move
Zoro may have simply wanted to avoid being turned into a demon, but the effect he caused is far greater. With Luffy and Loki yet to officially join the fight, the internal disruption caused by Dorry and Brogy is the best hope to protect the others from being flipped into demons.
The ending of chapter 1173 opens a new path: sometimes victory doesn’t come from defeating the enemy directly but from making their system self-destruct from within.