Dragon Ball is renowned for its ensemble of memorable characters, each vying for the spotlight alongside the legendary Goku. From the early days of training with Krillin under Master Roshi’s tutelage, Goku has been surrounded by a dedicated group of friends who support his quest to protect Earth. Nevertheless, as the series has evolved, the threat level has escalated, leading to a noticeable gap in power between the Saiyans and many of Earth’s native fighters.
Among these fighters is Piccolo, who originally entered the fray with intentions to eliminate Goku and wreak havoc on Earth. Over time, he transformed from villain to hero, becoming a staunch defender of the planet he once sought to conquer. Despite his pivotal role in the franchise, particularly until the Majin Buu Saga, he found himself overshadowed as new threats emerged. However, the recent release, Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero, reinvigorated his character by bestowing upon him a striking power-up, although fans have often debated whether he truly matches the strength of the main cast. Recent insights suggest that, in fact, Piccolo may be closer in strength to Goku and others than previously perceived.
Insights from Dragon Ball Super’s Artist: Piccolo Stands Equal to Goku
Piccolo: A True Contender Among Dragon Ball’s Elite Fighters
The recently released Dragon Ball Super volume #24 in Japan presents an eye-catching cover featuring the series’ most formidable characters, including Ultra Instinct Goku, Ultra Ego Vegeta, Full Power Broly, Beast Gohan, and Orange Piccolo. The artist, Toyotarou, expressed that all five characters possess equivalent power levels, a statement that is bound to delight fans who have been longing for a resurgence of side characters. He noted, “I wanted to show that the power of these five characters are the same, so I made this collage,”highlighting the collaborative strength that underscores the series.
This collaborative aspect is rejuvenating for a franchise long centered on Goku’s singular strength. Notably, Toyotarou clarified that while the characters may be on similar levels of power, they are not necessarily identical in strength. This acknowledgment marks a significant shift from the dynamics observed since the Namek Saga, where the distance between characters grew more pronounced. Piccolo’s earlier competence, demonstrated when he was able to take on Android 17 in the Cell Saga, is now revitalized, suggesting he has regained significant ground.
A New Era for Dragon Ball Super: Elevating Other Characters
Dragon Ball Super Shifts Focus: More Characters Step into the Limelight
Supporting Piccolo in this revitalization is Gohan, whose character has faced challenges of his own since losing his protagonist status during the Buu Saga. With Broly adding fresh dynamics to the team, the narrative trajectory of Dragon Ball hints at a collective of fighters gaining prominence over the traditionally singular focus on Goku and Vegeta. The expansion of character roles is not only beneficial but essential, providing much-needed depth for characters like Piccolo and Gohan, who have often been side-lined.
Furthermore, Toyotarou’s comments regarding future artwork hint at a possible shift in the series’ trajectory after a lengthy hiatus. His acknowledgment of time constraints suggests an exciting transition as the artist may prepare to resume work on Dragon Ball Super, bringing with it the promise of more dynamic storytelling and character development.
As the series progresses, the inclusion of Piccolo and other often-overlooked characters is poised to enrich the Dragon Ball narrative. With Piccolo now confirmed to be on an equal playing field with Goku, fans eagerly await the opportunity for him to showcase his new Orange form in exciting battles ahead.
Source: Dragon Ball Official