The recent release of Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO marks a significant return of the beloved Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi franchise after nearly two decades. Featuring dynamic gameplay, cutting-edge graphics, and an impressive roster of over 180 characters, including those from Dragon Ball DAIMA, the game also delves into captivating “What If?” storylines that deviate from the established series canon. From imaginative scenarios like Babidi turning Piccolo into Majin instead of Vegeta, to Goku fusing with Gohan using Potara Earrings, the game explores a wide range of narrative possibilities.
One of the most intriguing concepts introduced in Sparking! ZERO is the Gohan Black saga. This storyline examines the implications of Zamasu using the Super Dragon Balls to steal Gohan’s body, rather than Goku’s, resulting in the emergence of Gohan Black. This idea not only offers exciting battles but also presents a richer narrative potential compared to the existing Goku Black storyline in Dragon Ball Super.
Gohan’s Untapped Potential Compared to Goku
Traditionally, Goku has been depicted as the strongest hero within the Dragon Ball universe, leading to Zamasu’s notorious body theft. However, since the inception of Dragon Ball Z, Gohan’s unique Saiyan-human lineage suggests that he possesses even greater potential. His evolution as a fighter has been marked by significant moments, such as his transformation into Super Saiyan 2 during pivotal battles. With training on the Sacred World of the Kai, Gohan’s powers were further enhanced when the Old Kai unlocked his Ultimate form, positioning him as a likely contender against formidable foes like Super Buu.
The introduction of Gohan Black could have explored Gohan’s Ultimate transformation in a darker context, allowing a deeper examination of his abilities and giving this transformation the attention it deserves. Unlike Goku Black, who possesses the Super Saiyan Rosé form—a reflection of Super Saiyan Blue—Gohan Black would likely exhibit a more sinister variation of his Ultimate form. This shift would allow audiences to witness the raw potential of a power-hungry Gohan, who has historically been more reserved in unleashing his full capabilities. As a villain, Gohan Black could potentially surpass Goku Black in strength.
A Compelling Dynamic Between Future Trunks and Gohan Black
The emotional resonance found in Dragon Ball Super’s “Future Trunks Saga” stems from Future Trunks’ return and his collaboration with Goku and Vegeta against Goku Black and Future Zamasu. Although facing an evil Goku is daunting for Trunks, the emotional stakes are heightened by his lack of a deep connection to the Goku from his timeline. In contrast, Future Trunks’ relationship with his mentor, Future Gohan, adds depth to this storyline. If Gohan Black were to confront Future Trunks, the emotional impact would be profound, revealing a tragic twist where an evil version of his teacher contributes to the devastation of his timeline.
This emotional complexity would also extend to Goku. The confrontation with Gohan Black—an evil version of his son—would evoke a greater sense of outrage and despair than his battles against Goku Black, intensifying the conflict. The story would likely take a darker turn, possibly resulting in the deaths of Videl and Pan, rather than Chi-Chi and Goten, which would heighten the tragedy and stakes involved in Gohan Black’s narrative.
Gohan’s Evolution and Future Arcs in Dragon Ball Super
Gohan has often been sidelined in Dragon Ball Super, particularly during the God of Destruction Beerus and Golden Frieza Sagas, where his character development seems to regress. Although he eventually steps up in the Tournament of Power, his impact feels diminished. The introduction of Gohan Black during the “Future Trunks Saga” could have redefined his character trajectory, providing him with a more prominent role and potentially triggering the earlier emergence of Gohan Beast, particularly in response to critical events affecting Future Trunks or his loved ones.
Imagining Gohan Beast’s participation in the Tournament of Power, possibly battling Jiren, presents exciting possibilities. His presence could enhance the collective strength of Universe 7, particularly during pivotal confrontations against formidable adversaries like Moro and Gas.
Fusion Potential with Future Zamasu
The potential fusion between Gohan Black and Future Zamasu opens new avenues for character dynamics. While Goku and Vegeta’s fusion into Vegito was a thrilling moment in the series, Gohan was initially intended to be Goku’s fusion partner before being sidelined. In light of Gohan Black’s emergence, a fusion between Goku and Gohan could create an unprecedented powerhouse, emphasizing their shared struggle against Zamasu’s tyranny.
By opting for a fusion with Gohan rather than Vegeta, the narrative would explore a reclaiming of agency, presenting a powerful statement against Zamasu’s threat. Alternatively, a Potara fusion between Gohan and Future Trunks could further expand the narrative, showcasing original concepts that differ from the established canon.
Exploring the Dark Side of Gohan
Dragon Ball has frequently explored the concept of evil doubles, particularly with Goku, leading to a sense of fatigue among audiences regarding this trope. In contrast, the introduction of an evil Gohan presents a fresh perspective that has rarely been explored in the franchise. Aside from a brief possession in Dragon Ball GT, the notion of Gohan Black remains largely untapped, providing an opportunity for deeper character exploration and narrative innovation.
As the Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO saga unfolds, the potential for Gohan Black to take center stage offers exciting new narratives for the franchise. The hope is that this character will not only thrive in the current storyline but also pave the way for future explorations of Gohan’s character in the Dragon Ball universe.
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