Summary
Dragon Ballis a legendary shonen anime that needs no introduction. Goku’s battles against nefarious forces as he unlocked new transformations and saved the world time and time again transformed many people into anime fans who can’t get enough of modern shonen anime.
The legacy of this series is immense, spanning four anime series (five if fans count GT) where the Z Warriors go on numerous adventures. Along with the Saiyans, there are several Earthlings and one beloved Namekian who have appeared the most number of times inDragon Ball.
8Master Roshi
Played A Major Role In Dragon Ball Before His Influence Started Waning
Without Master Roshi, Goku would’ve never learned one of the most iconic anime attacks of all time. Watching Roshi’s power as he pulled off the Kamehameha Wave compelled Goku to seek him out after his adventures with Emperor Pilaf to learn martial arts.
He’s a gifted warrior who had numerous moments to shine inDragon Ballbefore eventually receding to a comedy role inDragon Ball Z. Thankfully, Super gave him the respect he deserved, letting him play an important role during the Tournament of Power before being knocked out.
7Yamcha
An Early Member Of The Adventuring Group Whose Weakness Prevented Him From Playing A Major Role Later On
Before Yamcha was a womanizing weakling who turned into a joke later on inDragon Ball ZandSuper, he was one of the first people to join Goku’s team during his initial adventures to find the Dragon Balls. He’s been a member of the Z Warriors ever since, even if the most he did was lose embarrassingly in fights.
As one would expect, his appearances declined slowly but surely as he became useless in battle. Still, Yamcha was used for a few jokes here and there to ensure that fans wouldn’t forget about his presence inDragon Ball.
6Son Gohan
Goku’s Son Makes A Major Impact From The Moment He Debuts
Gohan debuted in the first episode ofDragon Ball Zand has been a major part of most story arcs ever since. This Saiyan’s untapped potential was finally realizedin the Cell Games, where his rage overflowed and allowed him to unlock the power of an Ascended Super Saiyan.
It’s a shame thatDragon Ball Superrelegated him to the sidelines as he focused on his career and ignored his training (twice), but the advent of Gohan Beast has made it clear that this character has more to bring to the table in laterDragon Ball Superstorylines. Despite some frustrations fans have with his writing, there’s no denying that everyone loves Gohan and can’t wait to see him succeed once again.
5Piccolo
The Final Villain Of Dragon Ball Becomes An Ally After Witnessing Gohan’s Compassion
The son and reincarnation of Demon King Piccolo was a tough antagonist who served as the final villain ofDragon Ball’s anime. He gave Goku a tough fight but was eventually defeated. With Raditz’s arrival, he begrudgingly teamed up with Goku to lay waste to this powerful Saiyan after a grueling battle.
Piccolo experienced a change of heart after spending some time with Gohan and eventually become a stalwart ally of the Z Warriors. He’s played a major role in almost every arc since, andhis Orange Piccolo formwill continue to help him stay relevant in future storylines.
4Krillin
Goku’s Best Friend Who’s Been With Him Through Thick And Thin
Despite turning into a joke of sorts, Krillin is still a reliable member of the Z Warriors who has played a major role across numerous arcs. He was Goku’s rival for the longest time when the duo joined the Turtle School, only to develop a sense of respect for this Saiyan as time passed.
Krillin may not be the most powerful fighter, but it’s clear that the bonds he shares with other characters inDragon Ball Zmake him a relevant character who will continue to make appearances inDragon Ball. Hisdeath on Namekled to an epic transformation that changed the landscape ofDragon Ball Zand turned the anime into one of the most beloved shows fans can’t get enough of.
3Vegeta
The Prince Of All Saiyans Makes A Splash In Dragon Ball Z And Never Looks Back
Vegeta is a character who debuted as a villain and Goku’s rival before slowly settling into life on Earth.The Saiyan grew in poweras the series evolved, unlocking several transformations that made him a force to be reckoned with.
He is powerful enough to share the screen with Goku across most major arcs as the threats inDragon Ballcontinue to boast more impressive power than ever before. With godly ki and new transformations, Vegeta will continue to enjoy major appearances as his entertaining and prideful character takes part in numerous battles.
2Bulma
Appears From The Very First Episode And Becomes An Enduring Presence In The Series Ever Since
From the very first episode, Bulma established herself as one of the most important characters inDragon Ballwho’s a joy to interact with every time. Players love the many scientific inventions by this character that make life more convenient for the Z Warriors.
From the iconic Dragon Radar to capsules that house impressive items, it’s easy to see why Bulma’s scientific mind makes her one of the most important and recognizedDragon Ballcharacters. The fact that she never participates in a single battle makes it astounding to see just how much screen time she enjoys throughout the series.
1Son Goku
The Protagonist Of The Series Who Has Played A Major Role In Almost Every Arc
It’s only a given that the protagonist ofDragon Ballwho was present from the very first episode would have the most screen time in the series. As the series transformed from an adventure manga into a battle-heavy series, Goku’s power continued to expand and reach new heights as he challenged greater threats and came out victorious.
From his iconic attacks to the many transformations he has undergone throughout the series, it’s easy to see whyDragon Ballwould feel empty without the presence ofthis lovable Saiyan. He’s a gentle warrior whose love for battle allowed him to unlock new levels of power and beat down his toughest enemies after grueling battles time and time again.
