Would Goku and Vegeta's Transforms Impact the Dragon Ball Z Series?

The Dragon Ball Z series is renowned for its intricate storyline and memorable character development. However, what if Goku and Vegeta knew how to transform into every Saiyan transformation, including Super Saiyan 4 (SS4), but excluding the god forms, at the beginning of the series? This hypothetical scenario raises several intriguing questions and possibilities, especially concerning power levels, character dynamics, and the overall storyline.

Power Levels

Increased Base Power: Goku and Vegeta would begin with much higher base power levels due to their access to transformations like Super Saiyan, Super Saiyan 2, and Super Saiyan 3. This would enable them to handle threats more effectively, making the early episodes of Dragon Ball Z much more thrilling.

Power of Super Saiyan 4 (SS4): Goku's transformation into SS4 would provide a substantial power boost, especially as it is known to surpass Super Saiyan 3. Similarly, Vegeta's access to SS4 would make them a formidable duo against early villains like Raditz, Nappa, and Vegeta's younger self. This would not only enhance their individual power levels but also their potential to work as a team, making them less reliant on Piccolo and other supporting characters.

Versatility in Battle

Adapting to Different Opponents: Having access to multiple transformations would allow Goku and Vegeta to adapt their fighting style to different opponents. For example, they could switch between forms to maximize their strengths and exploit weaknesses in their enemies. This adaptability would make them even more dynamic fighters and add variability to the battles, keeping the audience engaged.

Storyline Implications

Early Defeats of Villains

Streamlined Plot: With their enhanced abilities, Goku and Vegeta could potentially defeat early villains like Raditz, Nappa, and even Vegeta's younger self much more easily. This would have several implications for the plot, potentially saving Goku's life and preventing the need for the Namek Saga and the events that unfold there.

Changed Timeline: The absence of the Namek Saga or other early events might change the overall story trajectory. This could lead to a shorter or different storyline, focusing more on the adventures that occur post-Namek without the need for the characters to develop as much through these initial challenges.

Character Development

Rivalry vs. Teamwork: The dynamic between Goku and Vegeta would change significantly. With both characters being stronger from the beginning, their rivalry might shift from one of surpassing each other's power to a more cooperative relationship against common threats. This could lead to more teamwork and strategic planning, making their battles more complex and engaging.

Impact on Other Characters

Supporting Cast Dynamics: Other Z fighters like Piccolo, Krillin, and Gohan would also be affected. They may not need to train as hard or might become stronger more quickly due to the presence of Goku and Vegeta's overwhelming power. This could make the supporting characters' stories less taxing and perhaps give them more defined roles in the main plot.

Longer-Term Consequences

Power Inflation: If Goku and Vegeta can handle early threats easily, this could lead to a power inflation in the series. Future villains like Frieza, Cell, and Majin Buu would need to be reworked to present a challenge. This might involve introducing new threats or forms that can keep the tension in the story.

Conclusion

Overall, if Goku and Vegeta had access to all Saiyan transformations, including Super Saiyan 4, at the beginning of Dragon Ball Z, it would create a significantly different narrative trajectory. The series would likely focus more on their teamwork and the implications of their overwhelming power while also requiring future villains to be even more formidable to maintain tension in the story.