What if the Dragon Ball Z Characters Met Their Abridged Counterparts?

The world of Dragon Ball Z is an epic battlefield where heroes fight for justice and personal goals, all while maintaining a level of ethical responsibility. But what would happen if these beloved characters met their abridged counterparts, who are intentionally more selfish, sadistic, and anti-heroic for comedic effect? This article explores potential interactions and reactions between these familiar characters in a less-than-ideal setting.

Vegeta the Egotistical and Weaker Self

Vegeta, the iconic prince of the Saiyan race, is a character defined by his ego and respect for power. However, if he met his abridged counterpart, Vegeta Abridged would only find common ground with himself. Meanwhile, the original Vegeta Canon would be annoyed by Vegeta's self-centered and aggressive treatment of his family, feeling that his abridged alter ego is missing essential traits that define him as a character in the original series.

Goku - The Same Yet Comically Different

Goku, the protagonist and son of all Saiyans, would not be all that different from his abridged self. He would still be overjoyed at the prospect of a new challenge or adventure, but the abridged version would likely be more focused on personal fame and recognition, often at the expense of others. It is a sort of sad reflection on the character's journey, showing how even a heroic figure can be seen through a more cynical lens in the abridged world.

Gohan's Confrontation with the 'Father' and Piccolo's Redemption

Gohan TFS, the adopted son of Bulma and Gohan's son in the Abridged series, would tell his canon counterpart the actual stupidity and failure of his 'father' and how Piccolo is so much better. The abridged Gohan is known for his unflinching honesty and strong sense of morality, which would likely have a profound impact on Gohan's perception of his father and Piccolo's value as a mentor and a friend.

Chi-Chi - The Harmonious Partnership

Chi-Chi, the passionate and demanding mother of the canon characters, would get along well with her abridged counterpart. Both versions of Chi-Chi would likely share a strong sense of duty and responsibility, understanding the importance of discipline and parental sacrifice. Their bond would be strengthened by their mutual commitment to their children, regardless of the abridged version's more humorous and sarcastic approach.

Krillin: Same but Different

Krillin Abridged and Canon are basically the same, but with a touch of the abridged series' humorous tone. Krillin in the Abridged series is portrayed as slightly more self-centered and pragmatic, but still retains his underlying sense of honor and friendship. His canon counterpart would either respect or be baffled by his abridged alter ego's approach to life and battle.

Trunks and the Future TFS vs. Canon

Trunks' abridged counterpart, Trunks TFS, would undoubtedly be a formidable powerhouse due to his genetic superiority. He would likely be more reckless and self-centered in pursuit of personal glory, displaying less regard for the consequences of his actions. His canon counterpart would be surprised and perhaps disconcerted by the more selfish and anti-heroic tendencies of his abridged self.

Piccolo: Inner Struggles and Mindfulness

Piccolo Abridged would tell his canon counterpart about the voices in his head and the internal struggles that come with being a Transform-able Saiyan with a deep-seated need for validation. They would probably have a insightful conversation about these inner demons or simply meditate together, finding a momentary peace in each other's company. This interaction would highlight the complexity of the character, revealing the layers beneath his seemingly composed exterior.

Yamcha's Hatred and Bulma's Surprise

Canon Yamcha would instantly beat the shit out of his abridged counterpart, yelling and telling him to ditch his awful friends. This scene would reflect Yamcha's strong sense of loyalty and commitment to his friends, especially Gohan, in the original series. His reaction to his abridged counterpart would show the depth of his bond and the mental and emotional turmoil that could arise from such a confrontation.

Canon Bulma, on the other hand, would be surprised by Trunks Abridged's blatant disregard for authority and self-serving behavior. She would likely be disgusted by his selfish attitude, questioning the logic behind his actions and the respect her own son might have for him.

Heroes' Weirdness and Villains' Laughter

Almost all the heroes would be weirded out and disgusted by the abridged version of their counterparts, as they are intentionally more selfish, sadistic, and anti-heroic for comedic effect. This would highlight the ethical boundaries that define them in the original series and the loss of these traits in the abridged world. The villains, having no such ethical constraints, would laugh and kill their counterparts without remorse, further emphasizing the seriousness and drama of the original series.

Overall, the meeting of the abridged and canon characters would highlight the contrast between the moral and ethical foundations of the original series and the intentionally more ironic and humorous nature of the abridged series. This thought experiment not only entertains but also provides valuable insights into the development of fan culture and the enduring popularity of the Dragon Ball Z franchise.