Top 5 Dragon Ball Story Arcs That Should Be Canon Immediately

Dragon Ball, a cherished franchise among fans for many years, undeniably reflects the era in which it was created, resulting in certain imperfections. A significant concern is the abundance of filler and non-canon content woven throughout the anime adaptation. While not every filler arc is without merit, many enrich the series through captivating plots and the introduction of memorable characters.

To summarize, many arcs and films in Dragon Ball Z primarily serve to entertain the fans rather than to expand the core narrative. Some attempts to broaden the universe have subsequently been retracted by newer stories. Nonetheless, numerous arcs deserve to be canonized, as they contribute positively through their significant character development and compelling storylines.

5 Cooler’s Revenge and The Return of Cooler

Adding Cooler to the Canon Could Create a Greater Threat for Goku

Dragon Ball's Cooler flexing and looking fierce.

The fifth and sixth Dragon Ball films revolve around Cooler, Frieza’s older brother, who seeks vengeance against Goku following Frieza and King Cold’s defeat. Unlike Frieza, Cooler is calmer and more strategic, presenting a substantial threat that distinguishes him in the franchise. His unique fifth form heightens his intimidating presence, reshaping the visual narrative compared to Frieza’s fourth form.

Incorporating Cooler into the main storyline would deepen the familial dynamic of the Frieza lineage, providing further exploration of Cooler’s rivalry with Frieza, as both vie for supremacy and legacy. Cooler’s desire to eclipse his brother positions him not just as another antagonist but as a formidable counterpart to Frieza, sharing his cold demeanor and ruthless ambition.

In The Return of Cooler, he evolves into Meta-Cooler, a transformation that parallels Frieza’s arc and introduces mass-produced cyborg clones capable of challenging Goku and Vegeta. Though ultimately defeated once again, Cooler’s potential return could mirror the complexity Frieza brings to the narrative, further enriching the series by establishing new threats.

4 Garlic Jr. Saga

Garlic Jr. Provided Other Z-Fighters the Spotlight in Goku’s Absence

Garlic Jr. from Dragon Ball Z holding an imprisoned Kami

The Garlic Jr. Saga stands out as it links back to the first film, Dragon Ball Z: Dead Zone, depicting Garlic Jr.’s return and his malevolent intent to conquer Earth through the Black Water Mist. The story adopts a darker tone and highlights the Z-Fighters’ unity against a significant threat without Goku leading the charge. This setup allows them to demonstrate their heroism and capability.

This saga also grants Kami vital screen time. To defeat the Black Water Mist, Kami must confront the malevolent spirits of past guardians, showcasing his growth and genuine care for Earth’s people. This subplot enriches the lore surrounding Earth’s guardians, depicting Kami as more than a mere overseer.

3 Otherworld Tournament Saga

The Kai’s and Pikkon Could Enhance Dragon Ball’s Lore

Taking place after the Cell Games, the Otherworld Tournament Saga significantly explores the afterlife and the Kai’s responsibilities. Goku discovers a realm of legendary warriors competing in a tournament, where he faces Pikkon, a formidable opponent from the West Galaxy.

Pikkon, introduced as a non-canon character, resonates with fans due to his unique balance of discipline and ambition, contrasting Goku’s carefree nature. Their battle culminates in a stunning draw, adding depth to both characters. Incorporating Pikkon into canon would enhance Goku’s journey and enrich the broader Dragon Ball narrative.

This saga reveals that the conflicts within Dragon Ball extend beyond life-and-death struggles, centering on the quest for power and recognition among transcendental beings. Making the Otherworld Tournament canon could delve deeper into the complexities of the spiritual realm and the dynamics among the Kai, enriching the overall lore.

2 Bojack Unbound

Bojack Unbound Would Have Solidified Gohan’s Role as Earth’s Protector

The film, Dragon Ball Z: Bojack Unbound, introduces a fearsome adversary as a result of Goku inadvertently unleashing a galactic conqueror. With Goku absent, the Z-Fighters must confront Bojack’s malignant forces at a martial arts tournament, which becomes pivotal for Earth’s fate.

As Bojack and his companions take on the Z-Fighters individually, Gohan emerges as the unlikely hero, ultimately delivering the final strike to vanquish Bojack. Had this movie been rendered canon, it could have solidified Gohan’s evolution as Earth’s defender, demonstrating his capacity to rise to the occasion, even in the shadow of his father.

Gohan’s conflict with Bojack compels him to access his latent strength, aided by Goku’s urging from the afterlife. This pivotal moment signifies Gohan’s transformation and growth, as he confronts his fears about living up to his father’s legacy, thus shaping him into an effective protector of Earth.

1 Bardock: Father of Goku

Bardock’s Special Offered Insight into the Saiyan Culture Before Their Destruction

Bardock's original Dragon Ball Z design.

The original special, Bardock: Father of Goku, narrates the tale of Bardock, a low-tier warrior gifted with the foresight to witness the impending doom of Planet Vegeta at Frieza’s will. Despite the futility of his struggle, Bardock chooses to resist and valiantly stands against Frieza, ultimately facing his fate with honor.

As the narrative has evolved over time, new adaptations introduce characters like Gine, Goku’s mother, yet the initial story remains profound. It provided an authentic glimpse into Saiyan life, detailing their camaraderie and resilience before succumbing to Frieza’s tyranny. The depth of Bardock’s journey resonates with audiences, emphasizing his transformation from a self-serving soldier to a symbol of defiance.

Canonizing Bardock’s original tale would facilitate a nuanced exploration of Saiyan culture and relationships, offering insights into their warrior society before Frieza’s onslaught. Such depth would enhance fans’ understanding of the Saiyans’ legacy, showcasing their complexities beyond mere conquerors.

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