Why Blue Kaioken Is the Only True Super Saiyan Combo in Dragon Ball!

by

Summary

  • Goku introduced Super Saiyan Blue Kaioken, a powerful combination in Dragon Ball Super.
  • Super Kaioken is an anime-only technique with dangerous potential explained in the series.
  • Emotional turmoil in regular SSJ transformations restricts Kaioken, but it pairs well with SSJ Blue’s calmness.

Kaioken, also known as Kaio-ken, represents one of the earliest power-up methods introduced in the “Dragon Ball Z” series, and it was frequently employed prior to the emergence of Super Saiyan. In the “Dragon Ball” anime, there’s a more detailed exploration of Kaioken compared to the manga.

As an observer, I noticed that the manga had momentarily set aside its focus on certain aspects for a while, but it made a significant return in Dragon Ball Super with the introduction of Super Saiyan Blue Kaioken – an enhanced version of the technique. Not only did the manga bring this back, but it also provided an explanation as to why the anime hadn’t explored Kaioken thoroughly and why it remained unexplored for such a long time.

What Is Super Saiyan Blue Kaioken?

In the world of Dragon Ball Super, I’ve noticed a powerful transformation called “Blue Kaioken” or simply “Super Saiyan Blue Kaioken.” This is achieved when a Saiyan activates Kaioken while already in their Super Saiyan Blue form. It was first introduced in the series as a remarkable boost to their existing power.

Kaioken is a method invented by North Kai that intensifies a user’s abilities significantly, but at a substantial price. To maintain this skill, one needs exceptional ki control. Overuse or prolonged application can strain the body, often resulting in fatigue, especially if it’s used for extended periods.

Beyond the standard Kaioken, Goku has managed to elevate this technique to unprecedented levels through the application of Kaioken x2, Kaioken x3, Kaioken x4, Kaioken x10, Kaioken x20, and even Kaioken x100. It’s thought that each enhanced version of Kaioken is riskier and more costly. Goku has also demonstrated the use of Blue Kaioken x10 and Blue Kaioken x20. Various forms of Kaioken are showcased in Dragon Ball games, notably in Dragon Ball Fusion.

Is Super Saiyan Blue Kaioken “Canon”?

In the manga, what’s referred to as ‘Blue Kaioken’ is a unique blend of Kaioken and Super Saiyan powers. However, in the anime, Goku employs a different version called ‘Super Kaioken’, which he uses when he activates Kaioken while transformed into either Super Saiyan or Super Saiyan 2, such as during his fight against Pikkon (also known as Paikuhan). Importantly, though, ‘Super Kaioken’ is a technique exclusive to the anime.

In the Dragon Ball Super animated series, Goku employs the Super Kaioken move, though this aspect was omitted in the manga. As a result, it seems like Akira Toriyama never envisioned Super Kaioken as a potential technique. However, fans have the freedom to interpret things differently and regard Super Kaioken as part of the established lore or valid.

Why Doesn’t Super Kaioken Make Sense?

In simpler terms, Dragon Ball Super implies why the Super Kaioken transformation was never explicitly shown in the manga, and it’s quite logical. The Super Saiyan transformations primarily involve emotional distress and rage, which don’t align with the prerequisites for using Kaioken.

In the least, it’s hazardous to attempt a technique demanding precise ki control when under extreme emotional tension. As clearly expressed by Old Kai in Dragon Ball Super, the union of Kaioken and Super Saiyan is dangerous, potentially lethal due to the emotional stress generated by Super Saiyan.

In contrast to ordinary Super Saiyan transformations, Super Saiyan Blue is a transcendental change that operates uniquely. Unlike regular transformations, one can only attain the Blue form with a tranquil state of mind. Consequently, it’s not just possible but even enhances the capabilities when combined with Kaioken — in fact, it allows for taking Kaioken to unprecedented levels while simultaneously transforming into Super Saiyan Blue.

Who Can Use Super Saiyan Blue Kaioken?

Regrettably, only Goku has mastered the Kaioken among the Dragon Team members. It’s imaginable that human characters like Yamcha and Krillin might face physical constraints in executing this technique effectively. Nonetheless, it’s disappointing that none of the characters such as Vegeta, Gohan, Trunks, or Goten have picked up this skill so far.

It’s possible that Pan might pick it up eventually, given her ability to activate powers even at infancy. Whether Piccolo or any other Namekian can master Kaioken is uncertain, but there appears to be no obstacle preventing them from doing so.

Despite Kaioken’s diminished relevance due to the characters obtaining stronger forms, it’s likely that there exist other transformations, similar to SSJ Blue, that would significantly benefit when used in conjunction with Kaioken.

Dragon Ball Super manga is available to read on MANGA Plus in English and Spanish.

Read More

2025-04-13 20:37