Dragon Ball is a manga written by mangaka Akira Toriyama and which first appeared in 1984 in the light novel Weekly Shōnen Jump. It was later adapted into an anime, to become one of the most famous shonens in the world, alongside One Piece and Naruto. There are several animated series, representing the different seasons of the anime: Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z and finally Dragon Ball Super. Each arc follows the adventures of Son Goku and his evolution in the conquest of the Dragon Balls. It is in his quest that he meets many characters, such as the Cyborgs. Let's discover them together!
Son Goku
Son Goku is the main character of Dragon Ball , who has become a cult figure among otakus around the world. Behind his appearance of a brutal and powerful warrior hides in reality a sensitive being, always ready to fight to protect his loved ones and the Earth.
Mysterious origins
Although Son Goku was raised on Earth, he is actually a Saiyan : an alien race with superhuman powers. His real name is Kakarot and he was born in 734 on the planet Vegeta. When he was still a baby, his parents sent him to Earth in a spaceship to escape the destruction of his planet by the tyrant Frieza.
When he arrived on Earth, it was the old Son Gohan who took him in and gave him the name Goku. Son Gohan also became his sempai, teaching him martial arts and fighting in general. It was following an accident that Goku lost his memory and forgot his Saiyan origins.
A warrior with a big heart
Despite his appearance as a thick brute, Goku is actually a naive, loyal and big-hearted character. He loves fighting above all else and regularly participates in the legendary Tenkaichi Budokai, the martial arts tournament. Behind this thirst for combat hides a hero ready to do anything to protect his loved ones, especially his wife Chichi and his two sons Gohan and Goten (who we discover later in the series).
Legendary transformations
Throughout his adventures, Goku has had to face powerful enemies like Piccolo, the Saiyans, Freezer, Cell or Boo. To defeat them, he developed legendary fighting techniques like the Kamehameha. But above all, he learned to transform into a Super Saiyan, a state of superhuman power that makes him one of the most formidable fighters in the universe. There are several forms of the Super Saiyan, which Son Goku masters as he quests for the Dragon Balls:
- Super Saiyan : The basic transformation, where the Saiyan's hair turns blond and his aura lights up.
- Super Saiyan 2 : An evolution of the Super Saiyan, with longer hair and an electric aura.
- Super Saiyan 3 : An even more powerful form, with even longer hair.
- Super Saiyan 4 : The ultimate transformation in Dragon Ball GT, featuring red fur and monkey-like features.
- Super Saiyan God : A divine form, where the Saiyan gains a red aura.
- Super Saiyan Blue : An evolution of Super Saiyan God, combining divine power and the Super Saiyan transformation.
- Ultra Instinct : A superior form, where the Saiyan reaches a superhuman level of combat.
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Bulma
Bulma is one of the few women to be one of the main characters in Dragon Ball. A genius scientist and intrepid adventurer, she is not afraid to face the most powerful beings in the galaxy. Thanks to her extraordinary intelligence, she is often the mastermind behind the plans of Son Goku and his friends.
A genius inventor
Daughter of the famous scientist Mr. Brief , Bulma shows from a young age an innate talent for technology and invention. She is the one who created the famous capsules allowing to store large objects in small spaces. She also has a radar, which makes her indispensable to Son Goku's team to find the Dragon Balls. Throughout the adventure, Bulma will create many inventions, such as Trunks' time machine for example.
A fiery temperament
Despite her fragile appearance, Bulma has a strong character. She does not hesitate to verbally oppose Goku or reprimand him when he does stupid things. Even when faced with overpowered beings like Beerus, the god of destruction, Bulma does not lower her eyes and even dares to slap him !
A loving mother
As the story progresses, Bulma falls in love with Vegeta and becomes his wife . Together, they have two children, Trunks and Bra. This marriage, although surprising, shows that behind her image of a strong and independent woman, Bulma is also a loving and devoted mother.
Vegeta
Vegeta is one of the most important characters in the Dragon Ball universe. First presented as an antagonist, this Saiyan prince will gradually evolve to become an ally of Son Goku .
A proud and arrogant Saiyan prince
Born into the Saiyan race, Vegeta is the prince of this legendary line of warriors. After the destruction of his planet by Freezer, he becomes the sworn enemy of Goku , seeking to assert his superiority.
From antagonist to ally
Despite his icy attitude and his desire to defeat Goku, Vegeta will gradually evolve over the course of the adventure. At first a simple antagonist, he ends up becoming Goku's rival, then ally. This evolution makes Vegeta one of the most fascinating characters in the manga. In addition, despite his unpleasant side, Vegeta seems totally under the spell of Bulma , his wife. He is capable of deploying an energy never before achieved to protect his beloved.
An elite fighter obsessed with combat
Vegeta is one of the most powerful fighters in Dragon Ball. Mastering legendary techniques like the Big Bang Attack , he remains determined to surpass Son Goku. This obsession with combat, combined with his Saiyan pride, make him a formidable opponent but above all a remarkable ally to protect the Earth .
Krillin
Krillin is one of the iconic characters of Dragon Ball. He first appears as a rival of young Goku , but quickly becomes his best friend . Small in size but big-hearted, Krillin is known for his bald head and six spots on his forehead, having trained as a monk.
An outstanding fighter
Despite his less imposing physique than other warriors, Krillin is an excellent fighter. He masters techniques such as the Kienzan (sharp disk) and the Kamehameha , which he uses with surgical precision. His courage and tenacity will allow him to win many crucial fights against formidable enemies.
A faithful and courageous friend
Krillin is not only a formidable fighter, he is also a great friend who can be trusted. With an incomparable loyalty , he makes many decisions in the interest of his friendship with Goku. Whether by throwing himself into battle to help his friends or by providing moral support, Krillin is the pillar that his loved ones can always count on.
A comic character
Beyond his role as a fighter, Dragon Ball fans appreciate Krillin for the comedic side he brings to the series. We all remember his exaggerated reactions when he is faced with embarrassing situations, such as when he interacts with female characters or when faced with overpowered enemies. These moments of levity lower the tension of the more intense arcs and show another side of his personality.
Yamcha
When we meet Yamcha in Dragon Ball, we see a desert bandit who fears women and attacks travelers to survive. But after meeting Goku and Bulma, he radically changes course and abandons his life as a bandit to become a warrior affiliated with the Z Fighters . Recognizable by his long black hair and his scar on his face, Yamcha is a character who shows that one can repent and change.
From bandit to warrior
Yamcha's rise from villain to respected fighter is marked by his participation in several world martial arts tournaments and his battles against forces that threaten Earth. While not the strongest of warriors, his courage and determination to improve are notable. Yamcha works tirelessly to hone his martial arts skills and prove his worth within the group.
A real womanizer
What characterizes Yamcha the most is his love for women . He is known for his many romantic adventures, especially in his youth. While he was shy when he was young, he later becomes more confident and manages to attract attention thanks to his charm . He will build a serious relationship with Bulma, even if it will not last, following many arguments .
A faithful ally despite its weaknesses
Yamcha is not the strongest warrior, but despite his many defeats he remains a reliable ally for Goku and the others. His constant loyalty and support, even in the most perilous situations, shows that a true hero is not only measured by his strength, but also by his heart.
Piccolo
Piccolo is the famous Dragon Ball character with green skin , pointed ears and a piercing gaze. Coming from the warrior race of the Nameks , Piccolo appears at the beginning of the series as the reincarnation of the Demon King Piccolo , marking his entrance with dark intentions and formidable power.
Mysterious origins
Piccolo was born from the dying will of Demon King Piccolo , his predecessor, an evil entity who wished to dominate the Earth. After his death, Piccolo is reborn with his memories and a quest for revenge. This heavy legacy of anger and pain influences his early behavior, but it gradually changes over time.
From enemy to ally
Piccolo is initially presented as an enemy of Goku and a threat to Earth. But against all odds, as he faces greater dangers, he decides to ally himself with Goku and his friends . His passage from enemy to ally truly takes shape when he trains with Gohan, Goku's son, and fights with the Z Fighters against common enemies.
A mentor
Piccolo becomes a vital mentor to Gohan , guiding him not only through fighting techniques, but also providing crucial life lessons. This relationship goes beyond that of a simple master and student. It becomes an almost familial bond. By taking him under his wing, Piccolo shows that he has a sense of sacrifice, discipline, and that he can question himself.
Freezer
Frieza is one of the main antagonists of Dragon Ball . Known for his cruelty and desire for domination, he is feared for his ruthlessness and devastating power. Leader of the galactic empire that bears his name, he is personally involved in the destruction of planets and the enslavement of civilizations.
A power-hungry cold demon
The Frost Demons , like Frieza, belong to a race of extraterrestrial beings capable of controlling their bodily energy to survive in extreme environments. Frieza, descended from this powerful lineage, uses this innate power to expand his empire and exercise his tyranny . His origin places him at the top of a family renowned for its strength and evil influence in the universe.
A fearsome fighter with many forms
Freezer is unique in his kind, especially thanks to his ability to change form . Each of his transformations allows him to be even more powerful in combat, making each confrontation more terrifying than the last. Here are his forms:
- Original Form (1st Form) : This is Frieza's most common form, relatively small and with natural bio-armor that covers almost his entire body.
- Second Form : In this form, Frieza is much larger and more muscular. He resembles a larger and more brutal version of his first form.
- Third Form : This form is quite distinct and somewhat resembles a typical alien with an elongated skull. Frieza becomes faster and more agile in this form.
- Final Form : Frieza's fourth form, which is also his naturally most powerful form. He is more slender, with smooth skin. This form is also the true appearance of his race.
- 100% Power Form : While technically still in his final form, Frieza can increase his muscle mass to 100% of his maximum power. This form makes him extremely powerful but also decreases his speed.
- Golden Frieza : A form obtained after intense training, Frieza becomes golden and this transformation greatly increases his power.
An ever stronger return
Despite his successive defeats against Goku and his allies, Freezer always comes back stronger . Whether by technological means or by strategic alliances, he always finds a way to return to the center of the action. He clearly refuses to abandon his ambitions of universal domination.
Secondary characters
Son Gohan
Son Gohan is the eldest son of Goku . His ability to unlock extraordinary levels of power when under pressure is legendary. Between his training with Piccolo and his transformation into a Super Saiyan 2 against Cell, Gohan is a character who embodies courage.
Majin Boo
Majin Boo is an antagonist turned ally , known for his multiple forms, each with a unique personality. His latest incarnation, the kind Boo, becomes a friend to the heroes, bringing humor and power to the group.
Trunks
Trunks, son of Vegeta and Bulma , is famous for his time travel. His interventions have changed the course of history, fighting for a better future. He is a determined warrior with a double life between the present and an apocalyptic future.
Cell
Cell is a bio-android created from the cells of several warriors, including Goku and Vegeta. His goal is to become the perfect being, which leads him to organize the Cell Games, a fight that determines the fate of the Earth.
Android 18 (C-18)
C-18, initially a menace, becomes a valuable member of the Z Fighters after marrying Krillin. Her remarkable strength and calm demeanor make her a fascinating and respected character.
Chichi
Chichi is Goku's wife and the mother of Gohan and Goten . Known for her strict nature about education, she is a stabilizing force for her family, always concerned about their well-being.
Beerus
Beerus, the God of Destruction of Universe 7 , plays a crucial role in Dragon Ball Super. His search for powerful opponents often leads him into friendly and dangerous clashes with Earth's warriors.
Master Roshi
Master Roshi is the wise mentor of Goku and Krillin . Despite his age, he actively participates in several important battles, proving that wisdom and experience are invaluable.
Tien Shinhan
Tien Shinhan, a serious martial artist , is known for his unique techniques like the Tri-Beam. A loyal defender of Earth, he never hesitates to fight major threats.
Mr. Satan (Hercules)
Mr. Satan is a martial artist who gains popularity by claiming to have saved the world. Despite his exaggerations, he has moments of actual bravery and becomes an unexpected ally of the Z Fighters .
King Kai (Northern Kaio)
King Kai, one of the Four Kings of the Otherworld , is Goku's mentor in advanced techniques such as the Kaio-ken. His training is crucial to the challenges Goku encounters.
Videl
Videl is the courageous daughter of Mr. Satan and Gohan's wife . She learns to fly and fight, actively taking part in the adventures of the Z Fighters, and shows exceptional courage.
Goten
Goten is the youngest son of Goku . Known for his striking resemblance to his father, he reached the Super Saiyan stage at a very young age. Goten symbolizes the new generation of warriors.
Timeless characters
In the world of Dragon Ball, unique episodes and characters continue to fascinate generations of fans. Each character, from Goku to Vegeta, Bulma to Piccolo, brings their own unique touch to the anime. Goku's adventures in search of the Dragon Balls feature action, humor, and camaraderie. Who is your favorite Dragon Ball character ?