Why Android 21 Doesn't Appear in Dragon Ball Canon

.Android 21, a significant antagonist in Dragon Ball FighterZ, plays a critical role in video game lore. However, her absence from the main Dragon Ball series is not unexpected. This article explores the reasons behind Android 21's exclusivity to Dragon Ball FighterZ and how such characters fit into the broader Dragon Ball universe.

Exclusive to Video Games

Similar to other video game exclusive characters such as Dragon Ball Heroes and Dragon Ball Xenoverse, Android 21 is a character created for the Dragon Ball FighterZ game. She is not considered an official part of the canon of the original manga and anime series. This is because these characters are crafted to enhance the gaming experience and do not fit into the established narrative of the Dragon Ball storyline.

Canon and Video Game Differences

The characters in video games, including Android 21, often have story and personality traits that differ significantly from their counterparts in the animated series and manga. For instance, the Z Movie and Dragon Ball Super portrayals of Broly reveal that even powerful fighters like him can have drastically different personalities and appearances. Similarly, if Android 21 were to appear in canon, she would likely be a significantly different character from how she is portrayed in the game.

Cannibal Shenron and Mechanical Revival

Another factor that prevents characters like Android 21 from appearing in the main Dragon Ball canon is the rare ability of the genie Shenron to revive and grant wishes. Specifically, Shenron cannot revive mechanical beings, as is the case with Android 16. This leaves Android 21, who is partially mechanical, in a similar situation, unable to be revived by Shenron.

Theoretical Scenario

Imagining a world where such a revival was possible, certain constraints would still apply. For example, if Android 21 were to be revived and scaled down to the level of the protagonists (Goku, Vegeta), her power would still be dampened, similar to how Cell and the Father form of Android 17 are weaker in their first appearances. The key to utilizing her properly would be allowing her to turn good, a process she undergoes in the game. While the heroes would face similar challenges, the balance of power would allow for an interesting narrative.
Even under this scenario, events like the arrival of Majin Buu would pose significant challenges. Ultimately, her role as a significant player would diminish as future events in the Dragon Ball universe would likely eclipse her power and importance. This is because the Dragon Ball canon already has a rich cast of powerful characters that add depth and excitement to the narrative.

End of Utility

In a world where Android 21 is revived and realized in the canon, her power would render her formidable. However, as the Dragon Ball storyline progresses, the nature of the villains and the increasing power levels of the heroes would mean that even she would eventually be overshadowed. For instance, her power would still be insufficient to defeat powerful foes like Super Saiyan God Broly, or to compete with the advanced fighters like Jiren from the Dragon Ball Super events.

Conclusion

While the idea of Android 21 being a part of the Dragon Ball canon is intriguing, the practical constraints of the narrative and the established rules within the Dragon Ball universe make it highly unlikely. These characters are created to enhance the gaming experience rather than being integral parts of the ongoing story. The absence of Android 21 in the main Dragon Ball series is a reflection of these creative choices and the careful maintenance of the series' continuity.