Underutilized Yet Powerful Side Characters in Dragon Ball Z

Introduction: The Shadow Warriors of Dragon Ball Z

The Dragon Ball Z universe is filled with larger-than-life battles, unforgettable transformations, and world-ending stakes. While Goku and Vegeta often dominate the spotlight, there exists a roster of supporting characters whose strength and potential are often overlooked. These fighters have proven their might on several occasions, yet for various reasons—narrative focus, Saiyan favoritism, or shifting power scales—they are left behind. This article explores the most powerful yet underutilized characters in Dragon Ball Z, analyzing their feats, potential, and how the series could have better incorporated them into its grand narrative.

1. Tien Shinhan: The Human Wall

Fierce and Focused

Tien Shinhan began his journey as a rival to Goku in the original Dragon Ball, but by Dragon Ball Z, his role shifted to that of a secondary fighter. Despite this, Tien never stopped pushing his limits.

Highlights of Tien’s Power

• Tri-Beam (Kikoho): A life-draining technique capable of halting Semi-Perfect Cell—a feat very few non-Saiyans can boast.
• Multi-Form Technique: While not unique, Tien uses it with strategic mastery.
• Third Eye: Symbolic of his enlightenment, it also enhances his battle perception.

Wasted Potential

Tien was one of the few Earthlings who consistently trained. In Dragon Ball Super, he’s barely relevant. With proper mentorship or divine training, he could have been elevated to god-tier.

See more about Tien Shinhan: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tien_Shinhan

2. Yamcha: From Star to Punchline

Once a Fearsome Desert Bandit

In early Dragon Ball, Yamcha was a strong and charismatic character. By Dragon Ball Z, however, he’s relegated to comic relief.

What Makes Him Strong

• Wolf Fang Fist: A signature technique that once overwhelmed Goku.
• Martial Arts Mastery: A student of Master Roshi, Yamcha is fundamentally skilled.
• Saiyan Saga Effort: Holds his own until his iconic death by Saibaman.

Redemption Arc Needed

Yamcha’s fall from grace isn’t due to lack of ability but poor writing. Had he trained with King Kai like Tien and Chiaotzu, he could have evolved.

3. Chiaotzu: Psychic Underdog

Small But Mighty

Often overshadowed by Tien, Chiaotzu’s psychic abilities and telekinesis could have had greater applications in combat.

Underrated Abilities

• Telekinesis: Can immobilize enemies temporarily.
• Self-Destruct Technique: Used on Nappa, showcasing courage and desperation.
• Psychic Communication: A subtle but strategic asset.

Why He Deserved Better

Rather than benching Chiaotzu, the series could have explored his growth through spiritual or mental training, tapping into his latent psychic energy.

4. Mr. Satan (Hercule): More Than a Joke

Earth’s Champion

While played for comic relief, Mr. Satan represents the everyday hero. He doesn’t have superpowers, but his heart, charisma, and bravery earn him global admiration.

Notable Contributions

• Majin Buu Arc: Befriends Buu and indirectly prevents Earth’s destruction.
• People’s Hero: Inspires faith and courage in humanity.

Potential Beyond Power

Exploring his psychological influence or giving him real combat improvements could have made him a symbol of human spirit versus divine power.

5. Android 16: The Gentle Giant

A Pacifist with Power

Unlike Androids 17 and 18, Android 16 shows compassion and love for nature—while housing massive destructive potential.

Abilities and Achievements

• Power Level: Equal to or higher than Perfect Cell (in early form).
• Hell’s Flash Attack: A devastating arm-cannon technique.
• Strength of Spirit: His emotional connection with nature and Gohan adds narrative depth.

Why He Was Wasted

He’s destroyed before reaching his prime. If rebuilt or evolved, he could have played a role as Earth’s mechanical guardian.

6. Goten and Trunks (Individually): Prodigies Ignored

Too Powerful, Too Young

Goten and Trunks achieve Super Saiyan status at a shockingly young age, yet they’re rarely allowed to grow as individual fighters.

Their Hidden Potential

• Fusion Mastery: Gotenks is incredibly powerful, but both boys are strong even without fusion.
• Raw Talent: Born of Saiyan bloodlines, they learn techniques quickly.

The Lost Training Arcs

Giving Goten and Trunks their own arcs or mentor figures would have opened a new generational narrative in Dragon Ball Z and Super.

7. Krillin: The Heart of Earth’s Defenders

Small in Size, Big in Heart

Krillin may be human, but he’s often the first into battle and the last to give up.

Why He’s Not Just Comic Relief

• Destructo Disc: One of the most dangerous cutting techniques in the series.
• Martial Arts Ingenuity: Uses strategy over brute force.
• Courageous Acts: Helped against Nappa, Frieza, and Cell.

How He Could Have Grown

Rather than sidelining Krillin, DBZ could have explored more mystical paths or creative power-ups suited to humans.

8. Piccolo: The Guardian Warrior

Once a Rival, Now a Mentor

Piccolo begins as a deadly foe but evolves into one of Earth’s noblest protectors.

His Strengths

• Strategic Genius: Often the battlefield tactician.
• Namekian Physiology: Regeneration, stretching limbs, fusion.
• Fusion with Kami and Nail: Significantly enhances his power.

Where DBZ Fell Short

After the Cell Saga, Piccolo is gradually overshadowed. A dedicated arc showing him training on New Namek or unlocking godly powers would have honored his legacy.

View more Piccolo: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piccolo_(Dragon_Ball)

9. Supreme Kai: The Divine Oversight

Underwhelming Introduction

Despite his title, Supreme Kai underperforms. His power is immense, but rarely demonstrated.

Potential as a Mentor or Combatant

• Telepathy, Teleportation, and Healing: Useful support skills.
• Ancient Knowledge: Could provide strategic insight into universal threats.

Where He Could Fit

Instead of being comic relief, Supreme Kai could have trained or guided Gohan in mystical arts, bridging the mortal and divine.

10. Dabura: King of the Demon Realm

Hellish Power

Dabura is positioned as a major threat before being overshadowed by Majin Buu. His abilities are demonic and dangerous.

Abilities That Deserved More

• Stone Spit: Turns opponents to stone—a rare one-hit KO.
• Swordsmanship: Skilled in close combat.
• Magic Affinity: Tied to the Demon Realm, could access dark arts.

Expansion Opportunities

Exploring the Demon Realm, or a redemption arc for Dabura post-Majin influence, could have been game-changing.

Conclusion: What Dragon Ball Z Missed

The focus on Goku and Saiyan transformations has often overshadowed an incredibly diverse and powerful supporting cast. These characters, despite their potential, were reduced to sidelines or comic relief. With better narrative balance, more training arcs, or a spinoff focused on Earth’s defenders, Dragon Ball Z could have created a richer universe where strength isn’t determined solely by Saiyan blood.

Final Thought

Would Dragon Ball Z have been stronger with a more balanced power distribution? Fans continue to speculate. One thing is clear: many of these forgotten warriors had what it takes to change the fate of the universe—if only they had the chance.

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