Dragon Ball: Dr. Gero and Android 16’s Relationship, Explained

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Dragon Ball: Dr. Gero and Android 16's Relationship, Explained

Key Takeaways

  • Androids 17 and 18 are cyborgs, not fully mechanical androids like 16.
  • Android 16 is fully mechanical, created by Dr Gero.
  • Android 16’s true identity is Dr. Gero’s late son, Gevo, modeled to be physically identical.

As a seasoned Dragon Ball Z gamer with over two decades of experience under my belt, I’ve witnessed the rise and fall of many iconic characters. But among them all, Android 16 stands out as one of the most intriguing and heartbreaking figures.

In Dragon Ball Z, the Androids are undeniably some of the most cherished antagonists. The Android or Cell Saga, often referred to as such, is arguably the most admired storyline in the series. With the ruthless teenage androids, 17 and 18, and the captivating and benevolent Cell, the Z Fighters encountered formidable opponents that pushed them to their limits. However, among the Androids, Android 16 was an exception to the rule.

16 was reserved, silent, yet fundamentally compassionate. He had minimal interest in battling the Z Fighters, instead focusing primarily on targeting Goku. This singular obsession stemmed from his strict programming. However, there’s a poignant backstory explaining 16’s character and Dr. Gero’s hesitation to activate him. What is the connection between Dr. Gero, the inventor of the Androids, and Android 16?

The Androids’ True Nature

Cruelty Behind the Machine

In contrast to what many people think, Androids 17 and 18 are not just robots; they are referred to as “Jinzoningen” in Japanese, which translates to “artificial humans.” These characters aren’t purely mechanical but are actually cyborgs. Originally known as Lapiz and Lazuli, these two were once teenage siblings who were abducted by Dr Gero and forced to undergo transformation into powerful cyborgs equipped with eternal energy systems, the ability to harness Ki, and a bomb in their chest designed to maintain their obedience. This explains why 17 and 18 hold such resentment towards Dr Gero, as they recall their past lives and the atrocities inflicted upon them by this scientist. Furthermore, this fact allows for the possibility of them having children with their respective partners in later story arcs of Dragon Ball Z.

16, unlike Android 17 and 18, is purely mechanical. He is an authentic android, much like Android 19, a fully mechanical warrior who only obeyed commands. However, 16 was deemed a failure by Dr. Gero because he didn’t have a fighting spirit or malice. Unlike what Gero wanted, 16 was programmed to target Goku but showed no interest in fighting anyone else. Instead, he preferred observing nature and animals, making him far from the ruthless killing machine Gero had envisioned.

Contrastingly, a cell is more appropriately referred to as a bio-robot. This cell is constructed from technorganic material, giving it an insectoid biology while endowing it with the unique capacity to absorb energy sources 17 and 18 for evolution. Cell represents Gero’s magnum opus, the ultimate artificial lifeform designed for annihilation, intended to bring about the downfall of Goku and the Z Fighters.

Android 16: A Tragic Face

The Reason Behind it All

Originally employed by the Red Ribbon Army as a leading scientist, Dr. Gero had a family, including his wife Vomi and son Gevo. As a young boy, Goku clashed with this organization during battles against Emperor Pilaf, King Piccolo, and eventually, the Red Ribbon Army itself. This confrontation was one of the early instances where Goku saved the world.

Protect the life I loved. You have the strength. My scanners sensed it. Just let it go

16 shares the physical likeness of Gero’s deceased son, Gevo, and boasts powers surpassing those of other Androids. Whether Gevo shared a love for nature and animals or if that is a distinctive trait of 16 remains uncertain. Additionally, there was Gero’s late spouse, Vomi. In the combat game “Dragon Ball FighterZ,” a fresh character named Android 21 was designed by Akira Toriyama to be incorporated. Like 16, Android 21 is modeled after Vomi. The two most potent Androids crafted by Dr. Gero were modeled after his deceased wife and son.

Some fans speculate that Goku might have played a role in the deaths of Vomi and Gevo. Although it hasn’t been conclusively proven, either one or both of these characters may have perished when Goku demolished the Red Ribbon Army bases. This supposition adds depth to Dr. Gero’s motivation for seeking revenge against Goku, as his resentment could stem not only from the destruction of his organization but also from the loss of his family: his wife and son.

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2024-09-02 18:03