Understanding Why Krillin Still Stands Stronger Than Tien in Dragon Ball Super

Dragon Ball fans often debate the relative strength of various characters, with Krillin and Tien being among the more prominent figures in such discussions. Despite Tien continuing his rigorous training regimen, Krillin's strength and experience have led to his prominence as one of the strongest fighters in the series. This article explores the reasons behind this phenomenon, drawing on battle performance, character development, and statements from key characters in Dragon Ball Super.

Battle Performance

Throughout the various battles in Dragon Ball Super, Krillin consistently demonstrates exceptional prowess, even when he initially takes a hiatus from training. In the latter parts of the series, Krillin has a notable showing, particularly in his conflicts with key opponents like Frost and Majora. His victory against Gohan during the latter's journey to gain Super Saiyan Blue further solidifies his status as a formidable fighter. Additionally, Krillin's successful match against Goku and Android 18 in base form, where he catches Goku off guard and holds his own, further showcases his robust combat abilities.

Character Development

Character development plays a significant role in distinguishing Krillin from Tien. While Tien maintains a consistent training regimen, Krillin's experiences in battle contribute to his growth as a fighter. His past interactions with powerful foes and his vast array of combat strategies make him a versatile and reliable ally. Moreover, his role in the confrontation with the Super Shenron illusion and his subsequent training with Goku demonstrate a dynamic and evolving skill set.

Statements from Characters

Statements from key characters further validate Krillin's strength and reliability. Goku himself vouches for Krillin as one of his first choices for the Universe Survival tournament, highlighting Goku's recognition of Krillin's combat capabilities. Even during moments when Krillin faces challenges, such as his encounters with Majora and Frost, he maintains a strong and resilient demeanor, further cementing his status as a key fighter in the series.

Comparative Strength

Historically, Krillin has been portrayed as one of the strongest Earthlings, often ranking above Tien in terms of power levels. This trend continues in Dragon Ball Super, where Krillin's past experiences and ongoing abilities as a fighter keep him competitive despite his temporary training hiatus. Tien's performance in the series, though commendable, often pales in comparison to Krillin's, especially in critical moments and high-stakes battles.

Power Scaling

The scaling of power in Dragon Ball Super is a key factor in understanding the relative strengths of Krillin and Tien. While Tien is a skilled fighter, the combination of Krillin's past experiences, abilities, and narrative framing allows him to remain a formidable opponent. Even during moments when Tien performs impressively, such as his battle against Gohan and his participation in the Universe Survival tournament, Krillin's consistent performance and strategic prowess ensure his standing as a top-tier fighter.

In conclusion, while both Krillin and Tien are skilled fighters, Krillin's strength and experience have enabled him to maintain a higher status in Dragon Ball Super. His consistent performance, characterization, and key character statements all support this assessment, making him a standout figure in the series.