Why Super Saiyan 3 Vegeta Does Not Create a Plot Hole in Dragon Ball Super

Super Saiyan 3 stands out as one of the most spectacular transformations in the Dragon Ball franchise, yet it is often accompanied by a lack of understanding regarding its limitations. Fans commonly link this form to sheer power without acknowledging the significant drawbacks it entails. A recent discussion emerged in episode #12 of Dragon Ball Daima when Vegeta displayed his Super Saiyan 3 transformation. Viewers quickly began to wonder why he didn’t utilize this power during his battle with Beerus in Dragon Ball Super, especially when furious at the God of Destruction for attacking Bulma.

This has sparked debate among fans, with many perceiving it as a plot inconsistency that complicates the timeline across the two series. Fortunately, an in-universe rationale exists, rooted deeply in the inherent flaws of the Super Saiyan 3 transformation, originally established in Dragon Ball Z.

The Massive Drawbacks of Super Saiyan 3

Energy Drain: A Critical Flaw in Efficiency

Goku explains the effectiveness of Super Saiyan 3 while dead in Dragon Ball Z chapter 319

Despite being among the strongest forms, Super Saiyan 3 is ultimately flawed due to the extreme energy consumption it demands from the user. This transformation offers heightened power, speed, and strength but at a severe cost to stamina. Goku demonstrated this during his fight against Majin Buu, candidly admitting that he could not sustain the form for extended periods.

Because of this intense energy drain, the form poses a risk for fighters engaged in battles that are not quickly settled. Additionally, Super Saiyan 3 requires substantial ki not just to transform but also to maintain the state, which exacerbates energy depletion. Even though Goku and Vegeta possess the ability to utilize Super Saiyan 3, they frequently abandon it in favor of other forms due to an enhanced understanding of tactical advantages.

SSJ3’s Energy Drain: Poor Fit for Prolonged Conflicts

Tactical Choices: Goku and Vegeta’s Strategy Against Super Saiyan 3

Super Saiyan 3 Vegeta showcased in a dynamic stance

The considerable energy demand of Super Saiyan 3 renders it unsuitable for prolonged battles. As ki rapidly depletes, fighters find themselves fatigued and increasingly vulnerable if the combat drags on. This creates a mismatch with the fighting styles of Goku and Vegeta, who are keenly aware that stamina loss can lead to defeat. Thus, they opt for forms that allow for greater endurance and sustainability.

As such, Super Saiyan 3 becomes counterproductive against opponents capable of enduring its initial power surge. Vegeta’s reluctance to employ the transformation in Dragon Ball Super is a testament to his tactical awareness; he strategically selects forms that ensure durability in combat. Initially advantageous, the transformation ultimately risks greater harm in extended engagements, making it an inefficient choice for the savvy Saiyan warrior.

Enhanced Super Saiyan 2: A Superior Alternative

Prioritizing Endurance Over Temporary Power

In place of relying on Super Saiyan 3, Vegeta opts for an upgraded Super Saiyan 2 form in Dragon Ball Super (before accessing God Ki), striking a balance between power and endurance. By enhancing his abilities within the confines of Super Saiyan 2, Vegeta ensures he maximizes competence without incurring the same risks associated with Super Saiyan 3. This mirrors his previous reluctance to employ Future Trunks’ Third Grade transformation during the Cell saga, demonstrating his strategic foresight that prioritizes sustained vitality over fleeting strength.

Ultimately, Vegeta’s transformation into Super Saiyan 3 in Daima presents no contradictions within the overarching narrative. By choosing not to rely on an energy-draining transformation, he intelligently focuses on mastering other combat forms that synergize with his strategic style. Avoiding Super Saiyan 3 in subsequent arcs of Dragon Ball allows Vegeta to channel his energy into more effective and disciplined means of achieving power.

Source & Images