Overview
- The introduction of Super Saiyan 4 in Dragon Ball Daima occurred too late for it to be incorporated into Dragon Ball Super, as Akira Toriyama conceived the form after Super had concluded.
- Super Saiyan 4 would likely be overshadowed by the more powerful God Ki transformations, disrupting the series’ established power structure.
- There is potential for Super Saiyan 4 to exist in Super as a unique transformation for characters like Broly or the Saiyans from Universe 6.
Transformations are an iconic hallmark of the Dragon Ball franchise. From the very early episodes, the transformations that characters undergo have been critical to the narrative, particularly as they strive to become stronger. These pivotal changes often dictate the outcomes of battles, serving as the primary catalyst for defeating formidable foes.
Among these transformations, the various Super Saiyan forms stand out, with Super Saiyan 4 frequently regarded as the most potent. Although it was reintroduced as canon in Dragon Ball Daima, its earlier conception dates back decades. Regrettably, this form could not be seamlessly integrated into Dragon Ball Super due to a variety of factors. Below, we’ll explore the reasons behind this incompatibility.
Challenges of Integrating Super Saiyan 4 in Super
A Distinct Evolution of Saiyan Transformations
|
First Canon Appearance |
Dragon Ball Daima, Episode 18, “Awakening” |
|---|---|
|
First Non-canon Appearance |
Dragon Ball GT, Episode 34, “Back in the Game” |
The fundamental explanation for the exclusion of Super Saiyan 4 from Dragon Ball Super is simply that Akira Toriyama did not consider its incorporation into the canon until the production of Daima. However, analyzing it from an in-universe perspective reveals additional complications.
Narratively, Super Saiyan 4 was designed to be the major transformation featured within Daima, intended to be a significant reveal that would finally position it within the official storyline. In parallel, the God Ki transformations—inclusive of Super Saiyan God, Super Saiyan Blue, Ultra Instinct, and Ultra Ego—were established as the trademarks of Dragon Ball Super.
The nature of power in this universe responds to necessity rather than mere desire; thus, authors must create an urgent need for new forms to emerge.
Super Saiyan 4 has remained a fan favorite throughout the series, even as Dragon Ball GT faced widespread criticism. Fans longed for its debut in the main canon, culminating in its recent validation in Daima. Yet, its entry into Super would have likely disrupted the established power dynamics, especially following the introduction of characters such as Beerus and Whis, alongside other multiverse warriors. The heroes thus required more than their conventional transformations to remain competitive.
While it could have been crafted into the series, the divine elements of the Gods and Angels necessitated the introduction of God Ki to maintain balance. Moreover, if Super Saiyan 4 had been included, its impact would have diminished, overshadowed by the existing God forms acquired by the Saiyans.
Potential Integration of Super Saiyan 4 in Super
Execution Scenarios for Effective Integration
Despite the evident obstacles to integrating Super Saiyan 4 within the context of Super, it remains feasible if approached correctly. A key factor opposing its introduction lies in the perception of Super Saiyan 4 as merely another Saiyan form easily eclipsed by any warrior wielding God Ki. However, envisioning character-centric transformations shifts the narrative significantly.
During the Tournament of Power arc, Goku achieves Ultra Instinct while Vegeta does not. Simultaneously, Goku enhances his Super Saiyan Blue with Kaioken, a feat unavailable to Vegeta, who compensates by unveiling Super Saiyan Blue Evolved. This trend reflects a pivotal shift in the series regarding the treatment of transformations, reinforced by Vegeta’s Ultra Ego as an alternative to Ultra Instinct.
This development opens the door for character-specific transformations that would showcase the unique strengths of individual characters instead of conforming them to a uniform progression system. Thus, Super Saiyan 4 could serve as a distinctive transformation for Broly, elevating him to a level comparable to that of Ultra Instinct and Ultra Ego. While Broly currently maintains his Full Powered Super Saiyan state, Super Saiyan 4 is an exceptional fit for him, representing his ultimate form.
Alternatively, the form could be exclusive to the Universe 6 Saiyans. Exploring their unique abilities could allow them to access this transformation more effortlessly, revitalizing their relevance in the narrative.
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