Fans of the iconic anime series Dragon Ball are buzzing with excitement after episode 18 of Dragon Ball Daima, which aired on February 14, 2024, marking the first time Goku’s Super Saiyan 4 transformation has been made officially canon. This momentous occasion not only elevates the beloved character's status within the series but also introduces elements from the spinoff Dragon Ball GT—a series often regarded as non-canonical by many fans.
The excitement reached fever pitch as viewers witnessed Goku transform during his showdown with the formidable King Gomah. Just as Goku seemed on the brink of defeat, aided by the Elder Namekian, he tapped deep within himself to channel the power of Super Saiyan 4. Goku’s visual transformation, characterized by his fiery red hair and fierce expression, drew cheers from fans who have long awaited this thrilling return. Many noted it as the culmination of Akira Toriyama’s decades-long storytelling.
Since its debut nearly 30 years ago, the Super Saiyan 4 transformation has sparked passionate debates among fans since it was first introduced exclusively in Dragon Ball GT. Although Toriyama did contribute to the visual designs for GT, the series itself never fit within the primary canon established by the original manga. The resurrection of SSJ4 within Daima not only pays tribute to Toriyama's legacy but also serves as the final gift from the beloved creator, who unfortunately passed away on March 1, 2024.
On social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), fans shared their reactions, transforming nostalgia and excitement to trending topics. “El regalo final de Akira Toriyama para nosotros. No puedo más, estoy llorando,” expressed one fan, summing up the emotional impact of the event. Another user hilariously questioned the logic of “pensé que tenías que ser un adulto para transformarte en SSJ4. ¿Cómo funciona esto? No sé, pero me encanta,” capturing the fun and questioning spirit of the fandom.
These reactions highlighted the mix of emotions surrounding Goku’s transformation as it brought about waves of nostalgia for many who grew up watching GT. Others, particularly younger fans unfamiliar with the original transformation, experienced this pivotal moment for the first time, reconnecting with the franchise's rich history.
Comparing the SSJ4 appearances across both series reveals intriguing differences. Whereas Goku’s transformation in GT showcased him becoming physically older, Daima features him maintaining his youthful appearance post-transformation, presenting this much-admired power in a fresh light. Critics and fans alike noted these changes, contributing to varied opinions on the shift.
Despite the initial skepticism surrounding the incorporation of SSJ4, its major role within the plot of Daima has revitalized interest and prompted discussions about how future episodes may continue to develop this beloved transformation. The blending of nostalgia with innovation showcases the series as it celebrates its 40-year legacy.
Another point of comparison arises over Goku’s physical appearance during his SSJ4 transformation; the color of his hair shifted from black to the reddish hue seen in Daima—echoing the subtle design tweaks introduced by Toriyama himself and loyal original design contributor Katsuyoshi Nakatsuru.
Now considered canon, Super Saiyan 4 creates newfound possibilities for future arcs, drawing on the rich lore of past battles and character developments. With Dragon Ball Daima tethering itself between the timelines of Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Super, coupled with the reintroduction of beloved transformations, it remains to be seen how these threads will weave through the narratives to come.
But what does this mean for the legacy of Dragon Ball? The reverberations of this pivotal episode reflect how fan power and creator intent can reshape narratives across generations. Traditional fans embraced this new twist, but it also engaged newer fans, proving the franchise’s timeless appeal.
Episode 18 of Dragon Ball Daima serves as more than just fan service; it’s emblematic of the franchise's durability and adaptability. With the series not only embracing old elements but also revitalizing them, there lies tremendous excitement for what lies just around the corner. So, as we await the next episodes, one can only wonder: how far will this saga go? And as fans question what may come next, one thing is certain—the spirit of Toriyama continues to guide Goku and friends on their extraordinary adventures.