Dragon Ball Daima recently reignited discussions among fans, especially with the long-awaited progression of Vegeta into the Super Saiyan 3 form. However, the series seems to have reverted to patterns that many find problematic. The latest storyline pits Vegeta and Goku against an unexpected challenge involving firearms, and fans are now debating the implications this has for Vegeta’s character and legacy.
In the multifaceted Dragon Ball fandom, the divide between Team Goku and Team Vegeta remains stark. Supporters of Vegeta often express frustration, arguing that the narrative repeatedly positions him in a subordinate role to Goku. This latest development has reignited concerns that, despite recent advancements with Super Saiyan 3, Vegeta is once again being portrayed in a less-than-flattering light—turning him almost into a punchline. The emergence of whimsical ray guns might serve as the catalyst for this renewed discourse.
The Disparity Between Goku and Vegeta
Vegeta vs. Guns: A New Challenge
In episode 15 of Dragon Ball Daima, viewers witness Goku and his team confronting a battalion equipped with formidable weaponry. Initially, Goku succumbs to a paralyzing ray gun attack, yet remarkably, he quickly recovers and retaliates, showcasing his resilience. Conversely, when Vegeta enters the fray, he finds himself at a disadvantage. He is struck down by a laser blast from the same attacking force, failing to rise at all following the hit. Significantly, Vegeta finds himself compelled to request a Revive Bug—a healing item reminiscent of the famous Senzu Beans—highlighting a troubling narrative trend.
It becomes apparent that while Goku is depicted as capable of independent action even after being injured, Vegeta’s reliance on his ally to regain functionality casts him further into the shadows. This incident appears to serve as another reminder of Vegeta’s struggle to break free from the narrative confines that keep him subordinate to Goku.
Continuity in Vegeta’s Narrative Treatment
The Limitations of Ultra Ego
Vegeta’s journey throughout the long-standing franchise continues to be a point of contention among fans. The evolution of Dragon Ball Daima closely follows its predecessor, Dragon Ball Super, which raised the stakes for Vegeta but not without significant drawbacks. One glaring issue arises from the introduction of the Ultra Ego form. Intended to be Vegeta’s equivalent to Goku’s Ultra Instinct, his experiences with Ultra Ego have largely been marred by unexpected failures on multiple occasions, notably against the character Granola during the Moro arc.
This series of setbacks has led to a waning confidence in Ultra Ego, pushing Vegeta to shift his focus towards striving for mastery of his personalized variant of Ultra Instinct. However, this trajectory sees him once again following a path similar to Goku’s, rather than establishing a unique identity.
Though the missteps in Dragon Ball Daima seem less impactful compared to previous character developments in Dragon Ball Super, they still contribute to a narrative situation that feels increasingly redundant. Fans are understandably sensitive about Vegeta’s portrayal, considering his illustrious history and the perceived need for greater respect for his character. After years of misplaced emphasis and wasted potential, it is disheartening that Vegeta still seems relegated to the role of a tragic figure in Goku’s ongoing saga.
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