What If Grandpa Gohan Survived and Goku Unlocked the Ikari Form During the Saiyan Saga?

Imagine a reality where Goku did not face the tragic fate of being killed by Oozaru form of Goku, and instead, Grandpa Gohan managed to survive. Furthermore, during the Saiyan Saga, Goku unlocked the Ikari form. This scenario would significantly alter the narrative of the Dragon Ball series. Let's explore the implications of such a shift.

Implications of Grandpa Gohan's Survival

Goku's Upbringing

Grandpa Gohan's survival would likely have a profound impact on Goku's upbringing. With a stable and nurturing environment, Goku would have the guidance of his grandfather who could impart valuable knowledge about Saiyan heritage, martial arts, and the importance of controlling his powers. This environment might lead to a more disciplined and focused Goku, free from the traumas of his earlier life.

Goku's Character Development

The presence of Grandpa Gohan could significantly shape Goku's personality. Without the ongoing disruption and instability, Goku might become less carefree and more responsible. He would likely develop a stronger moral compass and a deeper understanding of the consequences of his immense strength. This would translate into a more balanced and thoughtful approach to his actions and decisions.

Impact on Goku's Relationships

Goku's relationships with his family and friends would also be different. The stabilizing presence of Grandpa Gohan would make Goku more protective of those he cares about, reinforcing the importance of family bonds. Such a close family unit could also enhance their already strong bond, further strengthening their collective resolve and support during critical times.

Unlocking the Ikari Form During the Saiyan Saga

Power Boost

Perhaps the most significant impact of Goku unlocking the Ikari form early in the Saiyan Saga would be his unprecedented power boost. This additional power could allow Goku to hold his own against powerful opponents such as Vegeta and Nappa, potentially altering the course of their battles. This boost might even enable Goku to directly challenge Vegeta, pushing them to new heights of strategy and combat prowess.

Training and Control

With the Ikari form at his disposal, Goku's training would focus on mastering the form, which would lead to better control over his emotions and powers. This mastery would not be limited to sheer destructive force, but would include strategic applications of his newfound abilities. Goku could use the Ikari form to leverage his strength more effectively in battle, rather than relying on a mindless rampage.

Altered Battles

The arrival of Nappa and Vegeta would likely be met with different outcomes due to Goku's enhanced capabilities. Goku could potentially defeat Nappa more easily, and even challenge Vegeta directly, forcing Vegeta to adapt his strategy or possibly reconsider his approach to Earth. This shift in dynamics could push both fighters to new levels of skill and desperation.

Future Conflicts and the Future of the Series

Change in Story Arcs

The early unlocking of the Ikari form and the survival of Grandpa Gohan would lead to a domino effect throughout the series. Key events such as the arrival of Frieza, the Androids, and Majin Buu could unfold differently, creating new story arcs and character developments. The balance of power would shift, and different alliances and rivalries among the Z Fighters and their enemies would emerge.

New Dynamics

Goku's growth and the survival of Grandpa Gohan would create a more profound connection with other characters, leading to new alliances and rivalries. For instance, Gohan could have a more active role in training and fighting alongside Goku, further enriching the narrative and character dynamics. These changes would not only affect Goku's character but also the entire trajectory of the series, altering key battles and relationships among the characters.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if Grandpa Gohan survived and Goku unlocked the Ikari form during the Saiyan Saga, it would lead to a fundamentally different narrative in Dragon Ball. The changes would have far-reaching implications, affecting both Goku's character and the broader storyline. This scenario would not only create a more complex and dynamic universe but also offer new layers of depth and conflict to the already rich storyline of Dragon Ball.