Is Jiren a Good or Evil Character in Dragon Ball?

Is Jiren a character that aligns with the forces of good or evil in Dragon Ball Super? This question has sparked a lot of debate among fans, who often view him as a complex anti-hero. In Dragon Ball Super, Jiren is primarily depicted as a member of the Pride Troopers, an organization dedicated to maintaining justice and protecting the universe. His complex character backstory, shaped by his tragic past, influences his motivations and actions, leading him to prioritize strength above all else.

Complex Anti-Hero

Jiren is often described as a stoic and serious fighter who fights for what he believes to be right. However, his methods can be perceived as ruthless, particularly as he values strength above all, even at the cost of others' lives. This attitude is rooted in his past, which includes the loss of family and friends, leading him to seek power and strength as a form of redemption. This drive for power often separates him from emotional connections and companionship.

Character Development and Tournaments

Throughout the Tournament of Power arc, Jiren's character is further developed through his interactions and fights. He proves to be a formidable opponent, showcasing a stoic and serious demeanor. In many story statements and actions, he is portrayed as someone capable of surpassing Beerus, the God of Destruction, before the Tournament of Power (TOP). After the TOP, his strength is further tested, and he eventually surpasses not only Beerus but also characters like Broly, Moro, and Granolah, as well as the Universe Martial Arts Tournament (MorLights) and the Heroes: Universe Seed arc. These achievements highlight his enormous potential within the Dragon Ball universe.

Character Criticism and Potential

Despite his powerful presence, many fans have criticized Jiren's portrayal as underdeveloped or lacking depth. Some argue that he is a mere skeleton of a character with no solid backstory or motivation other than a pursuit of strength. Jiren's one-dimensional backstory, often summarized by the trope of a "slain master," has been called unimaginative and tired. This has led to calls for more content in the series, such as a 1-hour special or a more detailed exploration of his character's history.

Future Potential and Restoration of Characters

Some fans envision a future arc where Jiren's character is better developed, possibly through interactions with other characters. For example, a potential storyline could involve Jiren seeking to make amends for his actions during the TOP, such as apologizing to Goku's friends after lashing out against them. This storyline could also involve collaboration with U7, a powerful character from the multiverse, to create a balanced fight against powerful opponents like Broly.

Conclusion

Jiren's character in Dragon Ball Super is a nuanced figure, embodying themes of strength, justice, and the consequences of isolation. While many fans see him as a complex anti-hero, there is also a consensus that his character development could be improved with deeper motivation and backstory. His potential for growth and impact within the Dragon Ball universe remains a topic of discussion and hope for future storylines.