Goku’s Most Polarizing Transformation Might Also be Dragon Ball’s Most Overrated Addition to the Series

SUMMARY

• Super Saiyan 3's massive energy drain limits its practical combat utility.
• The transformation's introduction undermined Goku's character development and earlier strategic decisions in the Buu Saga.
• Super Saiyan 3 represents a regression in power scaling, contrasting with the efficiency of previous forms like Super Saiyan 2.

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Son Goku’s character transformations have long been an attraction to global audiences. There have been many power-ups and evolutions in Dragon Ball. But the Super Saiyan 3 transformation stands out as an overrated and contentious addition among all those. It was introduced during the Majin Buu saga which became a subject of intense debate within the community.

Son Goku’s Super Saiyan 3 | Credit: Toei Animation

A recent discourse scrutinizes the transformation’s narrative value and overall contribution to the Dragon Ball myths. Even then, Super Saiyan 3 undoubtedly made a striking visual impact upon its debut.

Son Goku’s Controversial Power-Up

Son Goku‘s Super Saiyan 3 initially wowed viewers with its dramatic long blonde hair and intense aura. However, a YouTube user @Carthu’s Dojo picked out that the transformation placed within the Dragon Ball universe was a big mess.

Super Saiyan 2 | Credit: Toei Animation

One of the concerns raised was the transformation’s enormous energy drain. Contrary to other forms, SS3 proves unsustainable for extended periods. The form severely limited its use in battle. The form’s weakness has led to the question of why Goku would even bother with such a form if it has such drawbacks.

Likewise, the introduction of Super Saiyan 3 has been criticized for undermining Goku’s character development. In the early stages of the Buu Saga, he was portrayed as a serious, strategic fighter willing to sacrifice his limited time on Earth to protect the planet.

However, the revelation that he possessed this powerful form all along has left a feeling that it contradicts his earlier actions and motivations.

Akira Toriyama Step Backward in Power Progression?

The user @Carthu’s Dojo even argues that SS3 represents a regression in power scaling. He pointed out that previous transformations, such as Super Saiyan 2, were presented as more efficient evolutions of the original Super Saiyan form. But SS3 seems to reintroduce the very flaws that earlier transformations had overcome.

Super Saiyan God from Dragon Ball Super | Credit: Toei Animation

It led to discussions about whether the transformation was truly necessary for the narrative. He also suggests that the Buu Saga could have progressed similarly without SS3.

Although Super Saiyan 3 was criticized, it still holds a memorable and cherished moment for all Dragon Ball fans. Its visually striking design and the initial awe it inspired cannot be denied. As the series has progressed, particularly into Dragon Ball Super, the form has been increasingly sidelined because of new and more efficient transformations.

Whether viewed as a thrilling power-up or a narrative misstep by Akira Toriyama, its impact on the Dragon Ball franchise and its fandom is absolute.

Dragon Ball is currently available to watch on Crunchyroll.

Written by Akihito Chakma

Articles Published: 113

Holding a Master's degree in English, Akihito is a dedicated Content Writer at FandomWire. He has a keen focus on the ongoing anime series, classic series and new releases. With his passion for anime and writing skills, Akihito keeps fans informed and entertained through his work.