Series & First Appearance
Bardock makes his debut in the TV special "Bardock – The Father of Goku," produced by Toei Animation. The character was designed by Akira Toriyama, the creator of the "Dragon Ball" series. He later appeared briefly in the manga, in two panels illustrated by Toriyama.
Profile at a Glance
Bardock is biologically the father of Son Goku (Kakarot) and Raditz and is presumed to be in his early to mid-30s during his final mission. He plays a crucial protagonist role within the Saiyan saga and is notably associated with the Saiyan race. Bardock possesses precognitive abilities that allow him to foresee future events, particularly the impending destruction of Planet Vegeta by the tyrant Frieza.
Personality & Motivations
Bardock is characterized by his tenacity, courage, and strong paternal instincts. Unlike many Saiyans, who exhibit aggressive and ruthless tendencies, Bardock displays a sense of deep concern for his people and his family. His primary motivation is to protect his planet and his sons; his overwhelming drive to change their fate highlights his defiance against Frieza. The intensity of his visions fuels his determination, often pushing him into confrontations despite knowing the odds are stacked against him. He is not known for using memorable catchphrases but often expresses his resolve in emotionally charged moments.
Abilities / Powers
Bardock’s combat skills are formidable, with an estimated battle power of 10,000 during his final mission, which positions him as one of the stronger Saiyans of his time. His signature ability—precognition—allows him to envision potential futures, particularly regarding perilous outcomes for his loved ones. Bardock is a skilled fighter with a typical Saiyan fighting style that emphasizes brute strength and strategy. His abilities evolve significantly when he becomes a Super Saiyan in the "Dragon Ball: Episode of Bardock" manga, showcasing a power that exceeds typical Saiyan limits. Although Bardock’s power can be immense, he also faces limitations, primarily when pitted against Frieza.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Bardock’s character arc centers around his struggle against Frieza’s plans for Planet Vegeta. After receiving visions of his planet’s destruction, Bardock rallies a small group of fellow warriors to combat Frieza, but their efforts ultimately fail, leading to Bardock’s tragic death. This event is foundational to his story, as it establishes him as a significant figure in the "Dragon Ball" universe, primarily due to his connection with Goku and the consequences of his actions. In "Dragon Ball: Episode of Bardock," he gets a second chance in a new timeline, where he fights Frieza and achieves Super Saiyan transformation, representing growth and the possibility of hope against tyranny.
Notable Relationships
Bardock’s key relationships shape his narrative. His bond with his sons, Goku and Raditz, is central; he is driven to protect them despite knowing their destinies. Bardock also shares a significant relationship with his partner, Gine, who embodies the softer side of the Saiyan race. Among his allies, Bardock’s connection with fellow Saiyans, such as Tora and Fasha, adds depth to his character as he seeks to unify them against the looming threat of Frieza.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable scene occurs during "Bardock – The Father of Goku," when Bardock witnesses his sons’ futures in his visions. His foreboding realization that his choices ultimately contribute to their fates resonates strongly with fans. Another iconic moment is when he transforms into a Super Saiyan for the first time in the manga adaptation, signifying not just a new power level but a poignant legacy he passes on to Goku. Quotes that capture his essence often relate to his defiance against fate, such as exclamations of determination.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Bardock’s name is derived from the burdock plant, which is a culinary herb, showcasing the clever nomenclature often used in "Dragon Ball" character design. The character has remained popular, with over 1,000 member favorites reflecting his impact on fans. Bardock is voiced by Masako Nozawa in Japanese and by various actors in English adaptations, including the popular FUNimation dub. His story and character design have influenced several video games, especially "Dragon Ball Heroes," where he appears with extended powers. Additionally, in the broader lore, Bardock has captivated audiences through his tragic storyline and as a harbinger of the Saiyan legacy.
