The Question of Goku vs. Superman Without Power Levels

Can Goku, the iconic Saiyan warrior from Dragon Ball, defeat Superman, the Kryptonian superhero from the DC Universe, without using any techniques to increase his power level?

Defining Power Levels and Techniques

Before delving into the specifics of Goku and Superman's strengths, it's essential to clarify what constitutes a technique to increase power levels. For Goku, a power level modifier typically involves:

Kaio-ken: A technique that increases power temporarily but is marked by its limited use due to extreme strain. Super Saiyan Phases: These transformations are not a result of external techniques but rather the Saiyan's own internal power and training. All Super Saiyan modes are considered a natural part of a Saiyan's potential and can be unlocked through rigorous training and mental state.

While Super Saiyan is seen as a staple of Goku's abilities, similar to Superman's flight, heat vision, and super-strength, certain boosts are still necessary to surpass conventional standards of combat effectiveness.

The Case Against Goku Without Power Levels

Considering the fighters' strengths, Superman would have an easy time over Goku if only Ki were the primary factor involved. Superman is known to be powered by the yellow sun, and his abilities are significantly more powerful than Goku's even in a standard form. Goku would face several challenges:

Hypoxic Ability: In the absence of the yellow sun, Superman would visibly weaken, as his Kryptonian physiology relies on it. This fact could tip the scales considerably in Goku's favor. Kryptonite: A direct shot from Kryptonite, which weakens Superman's powers, would be a game-changer as well. Although Goku has no natural immunity to Kryptonite, using it strategically in a hand-to-hand fight could turn the tide.

Additionally, Superman possesses other advanced capabilities, such as super-strength, invulnerability, and enhanced reflexes, that Goku would still struggle to match without significant power augmentation.

Super Saiyan and Kaioken

To balance the fight and provide a fair comparison, we can consider how levels of power might impact the outcome. If Goku were to reach Super Saiyan Blue Kaioken, he would have a fighting chance in a hand-to-hand combat scenario:

Super Saiyan Blue: This form combines the power of Super Saiyan 4 with the healing and durability of Battle Armor, making it a formidable and sustainable combat mode. Kaioken: This technique allows Goku to boost his physical strength and speed exponentially, potentially giving him an edge over Superman's base abilities.

However, even with these powerful transformations, the odds still favor Superman. The sheer number of advanced abilities and resilience unique to Superman mean that Goku would still be at a disadvantage even with base-level power levels.

Ultra Instinct: The Ultimate Escape

Interestingly, Goku's most advanced state, Ultra Instinct, represents a significant qualitative leap, allowing him to react and move with an almost metaphysical speed. If Goku were to enter Ultra Instinct, the combat dynamics would change dramatically:

Ultra Instinct: This innate reflexive battle mode allows Goku to react with perfect timing and martial arts precision, making him nearly invincible in close combat. Demonstration Against Ginyu: In past battles, Goku's Ultra Instinct has enabled him to neutralize formidable opponents like Ginyu, despite Ginyu's attempt to reach his full power level through transformation.

Therefore, while Goku would still be at a disadvantage, Ultra Instinct could potentially give him the upper hand against Superman, especially if the fight includes unexpected conditions or strategic elements.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Goku would need to reach a high level of power, at the very least Super Saiyan Blue Kaioken, to even begin seriously considering a fight against Superman without any power boosters. If Goku were to go into Ultra Instinct, a condition in which he reacts and mirrors every move, his chances of defeating Superman could increase significantly.