Introduction

Would Lex Luthor, the cunning and ruthless villain from the Superman franchise, be a suitable protagonist for the Dragon Ball universe? The answer is essentially, no. While Lex Luthor has many qualities that make him an intriguing antagonist, his overall character traits and style do not resonate well with the Dragon Ball series' traditional style of villains. Let's delve deeper into why this is the case.

Lex Luthor and Superman: A Perfect Foil

Lex Luthor is one of the most iconic villains in comic book history, primarily because of his stark contrast with Superman. Superman, or 'Super Man,' if you will, is a symbol of hope and goodness, grounded by his human connections and deeply human qualities. In contrast, Lex Luthor is a mortal man who has transcended the limitations of humanity and developed an almost god-like intelligence and cunning. Superman's backstory is marked by tragedy, with the death of his birth parents and his early upbringing by the loving Kents. Lex Luthor, on the other hand, was raised by an abusive father and achieved great wealth at an early age. While both share a sense of pride, Lex's belief in his superiority and his obsession with fulfillment are starkly different from Superman's altruistic nature.

The Sigil of the Villain

What defines the 'villain' in the Dragon Ball universe? Traditional Dragon Ball villains like Frieza, Cell, and Buu are characterized by their raw, almost brawny strength—they often face the heroes in direct physical contests, testing their limits and showcasing their own abilities. Even characters like Moro, who rely on unique abilities, often engage in intense physical battles with the protagonists. Lex Luthor, however, is the epitome of a character who outsmarts his opponents through strategic and cunning means. His primary tool is his intellect and his ability to manipulate situations rather than relying on physical prowess. This stands in stark contrast to the style of villains in the Dragon Ball series, making him an unlikely fit.

The Cabin Fever Syndrome

Could Lex Luthor function as a villain if placed in the Dragon Ball universe? If we were to reimagine Lex Luthor as the primary antagonist in Dragon Ball Z, he would likely have faced the challenge of maintaining his power level and maintain the story's narrative arc. In Dragon Ball Super, Goku and company have significantly increased their power levels, often far beyond Lex Luthor's capabilities. For instance, if Lex Luthor were to create androids, he might be able to compete with the likes of Cell or the Androids from Dr. Gero. However, in a setting where the heroes are constantly evolving, Lex Luthor would struggle to make a significant impact.

Better Options for Dragon Ball

If we are to look for a suitable foe for Goku and the others in the Dragon Ball universe, there are several characters from the Superman universe who could fit the bill better: Doomsday: Doomsday is a super-soldier with immense strength and durability, making him a formidable opponent for the heroes. His genetically engineered nature and raw destructive power align more closely with the physical confrontations that define Dragon Ball's villains. General Zod: As a Kryptonian like Superman, General Zod shares a similar origin story and could provide a compelling rivalry. Zod's arrogance and refusal to accept the alter ego as his superior make him a suitable antagonist for Goku and the others. Mongol: Mongol’s powers are based on his unique Blood-Ki rune, which allows him to manifest his tragic past through sheer willpower. His less traditional powers and his ability to adapt would make him an interesting addition to the Dragon Ball pantheon.

Conclusion

In essence, while Lex Luthor is a formidable and intelligent antagonist, his primary focus on strategic and intellectual battles does not make him a suitable fit for the Dragon Ball universe. The style and essence of Dragon Ball villains favor characters who rely on raw power and physical confrontation. Characters like Doomsday, General Zod, and Mongol, with their emphasis on brawn over brains, would better serve as a driving force in the Dragon Ball narrative. So, to answer the question: No, Lex Luthor would not make a great Dragon Ball villain.

That's all, folks! Peace.