Dragon Ball: 8 Myths Even Fans Believe

Hey Dragon Ball fanatics! Ever found yourself in a heated debate about the series, only to realize later that what you believed was totally off? Don't worry, you're not alone! The Dragon Ball universe is vast and complex, spanning numerous series, movies, and spin-offs, making it easy for misconceptions to spread like wildfire. In this article, we're going to debunk eight common myths that even the most hardcore fans sometimes fall for. So, buckle up, power up your ki, and let's dive into the truth behind these Dragon Ball legends!

Myth 1: Goku is a Bad Father

One of the most persistent and hotly debated topics in the Dragon Ball fandom is whether or not Goku is a good father. Guys, let's be real, this one has been making the rounds since the Saiyan Saga! Many fans criticize Goku for prioritizing training and fighting over his family, often pointing to instances where he leaves his loved ones to face danger or neglects his responsibilities as a parent. It's true that Goku's passion for martial arts sometimes overshadows his familial duties, and he's definitely made some questionable decisions regarding his children's safety. Remember when he threw Gohan into the Cell Games? Yeah, not exactly "Father of the Year" material, right?

However, labeling Goku as a bad father outright is a simplification of a complex character. While he may not be the most conventional dad, Goku's love for his family is undeniable. He consistently puts himself in harm's way to protect them, even sacrificing his own life on multiple occasions. His Saiyan heritage and warrior instincts drive him to seek out strong opponents, but this doesn't mean he doesn't care about his sons, Gohan and Goten, or his wife, Chi-Chi. Goku's methods may be unconventional, but his intentions are always rooted in protecting his loved ones and the planet. He pushes his sons to become stronger not out of malice, but because he believes in their potential and wants them to be able to defend themselves and others. Plus, let’s not forget the moments where Goku shows genuine affection and pride for his family, like his emotional farewell to Gohan before the final Kamehameha against Cell or his joy in seeing Goten's power. These moments highlight a deeper emotional connection that often gets overlooked in the criticisms.

Ultimately, Goku's parenting style is a product of his unique background and personality. He's a Saiyan warrior raised in the wilderness who is more comfortable on the battlefield than at a PTA meeting. He may not always express his love in traditional ways, but his actions speak volumes. Whether you agree with his methods or not, it's hard to deny that Goku's love for his family is a driving force behind his actions. So, next time you hear someone call Goku a bad father, remember to consider the whole picture and the complexities of his character.

Myth 2: Vegeta is Purely Evil

Okay, let's tackle another big one: the idea that Vegeta is purely evil. This myth stems from his initial introduction as a ruthless Saiyan prince, bent on destroying Earth and achieving immortality. His early actions were undeniably villainous, marked by cold-blooded murder and a general disregard for human life. He was the epitome of a Saiyan warrior, driven by pride and a thirst for power. Think back to the brutal beatdown he gave Goku and the way he callously sacrificed Nappa – not exactly the behavior of a saint, right?

But guys, Vegeta's character arc is one of the most compelling in the entire Dragon Ball saga. Over time, we see him evolve from a heartless antagonist into a complex anti-hero, and eventually, a devoted husband and father. His rivalry with Goku becomes a catalyst for his growth, pushing him to constantly strive for greater strength while also forcing him to confront his own inner demons. The turning point really comes with his time spent on Earth, where he begins to form genuine connections with Bulma, Trunks, and even Goku. He starts to understand the value of friendship, family, and protecting others, something that was completely foreign to him in his Saiyan upbringing.

Vegeta's pride remains a core part of his character, but it's tempered by his newfound love and responsibility. He still craves power and the desire to surpass Goku, but his motivations shift from pure self-interest to a desire to protect his loved ones. Think about his sacrifice against Majin Buu – a truly selfless act that demonstrated how far he had come. He even admitted that Goku was stronger than him, a monumental admission for the proud Saiyan prince! So, while Vegeta may have started as a villain, his journey is a testament to the power of redemption and the ability of even the most hardened hearts to change. Calling him purely evil simply ignores the incredible development he undergoes throughout the series.

Myth 3: Gohan Peaked in the Cell Saga

Ah, Gohan – the Saiyan prodigy who unleashed unprecedented power as a kid. This leads us to the popular, yet often debated, myth that Gohan peaked in the Cell Saga. Many fans believe that his defeat of Cell marked the pinnacle of his strength and that he has been steadily declining ever since. There’s definitely some evidence to support this view. After all, Gohan achieved Super Saiyan 2 at a young age, surpassing even his father in power at that time. The iconic image of him unleashing his fury on Cell, with his golden aura blazing, is etched in every Dragon Ball fan's memory. And let's be honest, he was pretty darn impressive during that fight!

However, guys, the idea that Gohan's power has permanently diminished is not entirely accurate. While it's true that he doesn't maintain the same level of intensity in his training as Goku and Vegeta, Gohan's potential is still immense. He chooses to pursue a scholarly life, prioritizing his education and family over constant fighting. This doesn't mean he's weak; it simply means his priorities have shifted. We see glimpses of his hidden power throughout the Buu Saga and even in Dragon Ball Super. Remember his Mystic form, unlocked by the Elder Kai? That transformation showcased a power that rivaled Super Saiyan God!

Gohan's strength is unique in that it's tied to his emotions and his willingness to fight for what he believes in. When his loved ones are threatened, his dormant power resurfaces, often exceeding expectations. He may not always be at the forefront of every battle, but he's always a force to be reckoned with. So, while Gohan may not be as consistently powerful as Goku or Vegeta, writing him off as having peaked in the Cell Saga is a mistake. His potential is always there, waiting to be unleashed when the situation demands it. It's more accurate to say that Gohan's power fluctuates based on his focus and the circumstances, rather than a permanent decline.

Myth 4: Krillin is Weak

Now, let's talk about Krillin. This is a myth that really grinds my gears, guys! Poor Krillin often gets the short end of the stick, being labeled as the weakest of the Z Fighters. It's true that he's not a Saiyan and doesn't have the same potential for raw power as Goku, Vegeta, or Gohan. He's often outmatched by the main villains, and his frequent defeats have become something of a running gag in the series. I mean, how many times has Krillin died? It's almost a meme at this point!

But labeling Krillin as weak is a HUGE disservice to his character. Krillin is the strongest human on Earth, a title he's earned through years of dedicated training and unwavering determination. He may not be able to go Super Saiyan, but he's mastered various powerful techniques, such as the Destructo Disc and the Solar Flare. He's also an incredibly skilled martial artist, capable of holding his own against formidable opponents. More importantly, Krillin's strength lies not just in his power level, but also in his courage, his loyalty, and his strategic thinking. He consistently puts himself in harm's way to protect his friends, even when facing overwhelming odds. He's a vital member of the Z Fighters, often providing crucial support and tactical assistance in battles.

Think about his contributions throughout the series. He played a key role in the fight against the Saiyans, he helped defeat Frieza, and he even managed to briefly hold his own against Super Perfect Cell. And let's not forget his crucial role in the Tournament of Power in Dragon Ball Super! Krillin's quick thinking and strategic moves were essential to the team's success. So, next time you hear someone call Krillin weak, remind them that strength comes in many forms. Krillin may not be the strongest in terms of raw power, but his courage, skill, and unwavering loyalty make him an invaluable asset to the Z Fighters. He's a true hero, and he deserves way more respect!

Myth 5: Super Saiyan God is the Strongest Form

Alright, let's tackle a power-scaling myth: the idea that Super Saiyan God is the strongest form. With the introduction of Super Saiyan God and Super Saiyan Blue in Dragon Ball Super, the power levels skyrocketed to previously unimaginable heights. The vibrant red hair and fiery aura of Super Saiyan God made it an instant fan favorite, and its initial display of power against Beerus was truly awe-inspiring. It's easy to see why many fans initially believed this form to be the ultimate transformation. It felt like a culmination of Saiyan power, a divine form that surpassed anything we had seen before.

However, guys, the Dragon Ball universe is constantly evolving, and new transformations are always on the horizon. While Super Saiyan God is undoubtedly powerful, it's not the be-all and end-all of Saiyan transformations. Super Saiyan Blue, the evolved form of Super Saiyan God, quickly surpassed it in power. And then came Ultra Instinct, a technique that transcends even Super Saiyan God forms, allowing Goku to tap into his instincts and fight with unparalleled speed and precision. So, while Super Saiyan God is a significant milestone in the Saiyan power-up progression, it's just one step on the ever-expanding ladder of strength.

The idea that Super Saiyan God is the strongest form is a misconception that often stems from the initial hype surrounding its introduction. It was a game-changer at the time, but the series has since introduced even more powerful transformations and techniques. Power scaling in Dragon Ball can be a tricky thing, with new levels constantly being introduced and old ones being surpassed. So, while Super Saiyan God is awesome, it's important to remember that it's not the peak of Saiyan power. The quest for greater strength is a constant theme in Dragon Ball, and there's no telling what new transformations and abilities we'll see in the future!

Myth 6: Piccolo is Just Gohan's Babysitter

Okay, let's get one thing straight: Piccolo is WAY more than just Gohan's babysitter! This myth, while humorous, drastically undersells Piccolo's importance and complexity as a character. It's true that Piccolo develops a close bond with Gohan, acting as a mentor and protector, especially during Gohan's formative years. The image of Piccolo shielding Gohan from Nappa's attack is one of the most iconic and emotional moments in the entire series. And yeah, he does spend a lot of time training and looking after Gohan, leading to the