What Comes After Ultra Instinct in Dragon Ball?

The Ultimate Transformation: Ultra Instinct (Ultra Instinct)

In the ever-evolving world of Dragon Ball, one of the most fascinating and enigmatic transformations is Ultra Instinct. This near-instantaneous combat mode represents the apex of fighting prowess, but what comes after it? As of my last knowledge update in August 2023, there are no canonical answers from the series creators, although fan theories abound. Speculations range from new techniques to completely unprecedented forms, but until they are officially confirmed, these ideas remain speculative.

Canon and Fan Speculation

Canonically, Ultra Instinct represents the true mastery of the technique, standing atop the ladder of martial arts proficiency. After Ultra Instinct, fans have imagined various forms and transformations, such as Omni-Form, Seraphim Form, and Ultra Form. These are conceptual variations and fan-made continuations of how Goku would fight in Ultra Instinct, enhancing his abilities to an even greater extent.

Future Developmentals

I have several ideas for what could come after Ultra Instinct. One possibility is that Goku could learn a new technique that can be used alongside Ultra Instinct, or he could combine Ultra Instinct with other forms such as Kaiōken or Super Saiyan God. A good form I can imagine is a Royal Ultra Instinct Blue, which could subtly reference his royal lineage and add a new layer of depth to his fighting style.

Canonicity and Foresight

The only truly definitive answer would be a complete mastery of Ultra Instinct, which is the strongest variant of the technique. Anything beyond that would be mere conjecture. In the manga and anime, Ultra Instinct has only been activated in critical situations, suggesting that its full potential is yet to be realized.

Certainly, any future developments in the plot depend on how Toriyama decides to take the narrative. Canonical events such as Goku's training with Meerus, an assumed angel, and his progress in mastering Ultra Instinct hint at the potential for further transformations. As the Dragon Ball Super plot and Dragon Ball Z plotlines converge, we could see Goku reaching new heights of power and new ways to utilize Ultra Instinct.

While it's uncertain if anything will surpass Ultra Instinct, it's clear that even in its current form, Ultra Instinct is beyond the reach of most fighters in the Dragon Ball universe. As Goku trains with the Grand Priest and continues to grow stronger, it's possible that Ultra Instinct will evolve into a more controlled and accessible form for him, akin to how Super Saiyan 2 became his go-to form and Ultra Instinct became a trump card.

Conclusion

Thus, while the future of Ultra Instinct in Dragon Ball is shrouded in mystery, fans can look forward to more exciting developments. Whether it's new techniques, transformative forms, or simply a deeper understanding of Goku's mastery of Ultra Instinct, the series is poised for another thrilling journey.