Goku’s Lack of Depth Is Secretly What Makes Dragon Ball Great

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In terms of Dragon Ball characters, Goku is often not seen as particularly intriguing due to his relatively consistent character throughout the storyline. This consistency, however, creates a kind of uniformity that enables other characters to stand out brilliantly.

I’ve noticed that Goku, being quite amiable and trusting, sets himself apart from many other characters. His relaxed demeanor creates an unusual dynamic in relationships, often allowing the other person to take the lead. This gives us a clear glimpse into their personalities, and sometimes even pushes them to develop further. In a sense, Goku acts as a catalyst, sparking reactions from his friends that might catch them off guard.

Goku is the Kind of Character That Allows Others to Define Themselves

Goku’s Flat Nature Puts the Onus on Other Characters

Though Goku exhibits less character growth in adulthood and even as a child, he remains rather one-dimensional. It’s Krillin who capitalizes on this characteristic, as their childhood rivalry intensifies. Initially, Krillin was portrayed as self-centered and prone to jealousy, often resenting Goku as a fellow student of Roshi. However, through shared struggles and joint experiences, they grew closer, eventually forging a deep bond that transformed them into genuine friends.

Watching Goku’s benevolence and selflessness, I witnessed Krillin transform from his initial selfishness into a character brimming with compassion. This transformation eventually earned him the title of a pivotal figure in the Dragon Ball universe, known for his heart.

In the past, even contemplating sparing Vegeta or saving Android 18 would have been unimaginable for Krillin. However, these significant acts were made possible, thanks to Goku’s impact. Their bond also underscores their differences, as Krillin’s practicality frequently helps the impractical Goku recognize problems.

Much like other characters, Vegeta undergoes a change influenced by his bond with Goku, growing less antagonistic. This shift starkly contrasts with Goku’s essentially innocent demeanor, which serves to highlight how Vegeta’s past burdens him and eventually leads him to recognize that he is not the same person he once was. Interestingly, even their son, Gohan, is significantly shaped by his differences with his father – for instance, Gohan’s academic prowess and responsible character traits.

Goku’s Consistent Characterization Keeps the Series Stable

Goku’s Stability Becomes the Story’s Foundation for Other Characters

Goku’s unwavering personality is so solid that it seems natural for him to regress into a child form in “Dragon Ball Daima.” Despite having some negative traits, Goku embodies several positive qualities like forgiveness, compassion towards his enemies, and a gentle disposition. In many aspects, Goku’s steadiness highlights the growth of other characters, causing them to resemble him more. Although Goku may appear static as a character, he inspires change in others, making him intriguing.

By being straightforward and easy for most people to grasp, Goku acts as the cornerstone that shapes the Dragon Ball series. This simplicity in character makes it more universally appealing, likely boosting its global fame. A character like Goku, who is simple and clear, can bridge cultural gaps and make stories approachable to anyone, regardless of their background. Fans feel a sense of comfort and familiarity with Dragon Ball as they recognize Goku and understand his decision-making process.

In the grand world of shonen anime, I, a humble Saiyan named Goku, might not have the show-stealing moments that other protagonists do. Yet, this works to our advantage! It gives room for other characters to shine and make their own significant strides without being overshadowed. After all, I’m already involved in most battles, so adding too much personal focus could risk becoming an overdose of awesome.

That said, my character has indeed evolved and grown throughout the series, but it needs to be handled with care, like when I first transformed into a Super Saiyan. It’s not about me being static or one-dimensional; it’s about keeping the balance and allowing the story to unfold naturally, with each character getting their moment in the sun.

Ultimately, Goku’s consistent portrayal contributes significantly to the success of the Dragon Ball series, even though it goes against common writing advice to have static characters. By serving as a reflective surface for other characters to develop upon, Goku enables their growth. Furthermore, he offers a stable anchor in a series that is always changing, contributing to its widespread popularity.

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2025-04-20 20:22