Series & First Appearance
Zamasu first appears in the anime series "Dragon Ball Super," which was created by Akira Toriyama and produced by Toei Animation. His debut occurs in "Dragon Ball Super" Episode 47, aired on May 8, 2016.
Profile at a Glance
Zamasu is an apprentice Supreme Kai of Universe 10, appearing to be in his mid-20s based on design. His role primarily serves as an antagonist in the "Future Trunks Saga." Zamasu possesses signature abilities such as divine ki manipulation and time travel, utilizing Potara Earrings and a Time Ring to further his sinister endeavors.
Personality & Motivations
Zamasu is characterized by his cold and calculating demeanor, exhibiting a strong disdain for mortals and their perceived flaws. He harbors a self-righteous belief in his divine right to judge and eliminate those he views as inferior. His primary motivation is to attain absolute justice through immortality, seeking to create a world devoid of what he sees as the filth and chaos wrought by mortals. A notable quirk of Zamasu is his eloquence, often using formal and elaborate language, which contrasts sharply with his violent actions.
Abilities / Powers
Zamasu manifests formidable abilities including:
- Divine Ki: As a Supreme Kai, he wields divine energy, greatly enhancing his combat abilities.
- Immortality: This is gained through using the Super Dragon Balls to switch bodies with Goku, becoming Goku Black; his connection to the Time Ring further grants him resilience against being erased from existence.
- Energy Manipulation: Capable of creating powerful energy blasts and barriers.
- Time Travel: Utilizing the Time Ring, he alters events in the timeline.
His combat style is both strategic and brutal, often employing tactical maneuvers to subdue opponents. However, his desire for absolute perfection limits his understanding of working alongside others, often leading to his downfall.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Zamasu’s arc is intricately woven through several key storylines in "Dragon Ball Super." Initially introduced as an apprentice to Gowasu, his disillusionment with mortals leads him to kill his mentor and seize his powers to enact his vision of divine justice. Key turning points in his development include:
- The Kill of Gowasu: This facilitates his transition into a more chaotic and malevolent force.
- Becoming Goku Black: After using the Super Dragon Balls to swap bodies with Goku, Zamasu transcends to a higher level of power, marking his descent into villainy.
- Alliance with Future Zamasu: In the future timeline, he allies with his alternate self, cementing his philosophy of undermining mortals.
Through these arcs, Zamasu exemplifies the tragic fall of a being who desired to protect the universe but ultimately succumbed to hubris.
Notable Relationships
- Gowasu: His mentor, whom he betrays, illustrating the perversion of his ideals.
- Goku: The hero from whom he steals the body, forming the basis of his Goku Black identity.
- Future Zamasu: Serves as both an ally and a reflection of his ideologies, leading to a combined threat against mortals.
These relationships are pivotal in illustrating Zamasu’s development from a conflicted apprentice to a tyrannical figure bent on achieving his vision of a perfect universe.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Zamasu’s most impactful moments springs from his declaration: "You mortals create the filth of this world!" (Episode 62). This line not only encapsulates his disdain toward humanity but also serves as a catalyst for the conflict driving the "Future Trunks Saga." His confrontation with Goku during the "Battle of Gods" arc showcases his gradual transition from a conflicted character to a nihilistic antagonist.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Zamasu’s character design features distinct facial markings and a slender frame, typical of the Supreme Kai lineage. He was voiced in Japanese by Nobunaga Shimazaki, while the English dub features Kirk Thornton. Zamasu’s popularity is reflected in his ranking among character favorites, garnering over 244 member favorites. The character’s philosophical themes and complexities have sparked discussions among fans about morality and justice in the "Dragon Ball" universe, resonating well beyond his initial storyline.
Through nuanced storytelling, character evolution, and significant relationships, Zamasu stands out as a memorable figure in the "Dragon Ball Super" saga, highlighting both the potential for good in divine beings and the dangers of absolute authority.
