Series & First Appearance
Gokuu Black is a prominent character from the anime and manga series Dragon Ball Super, created by Akira Toriyama. He first appears in Chapter 25 of the manga (released in 2015) and Episode 47 of the anime (aired in 2016). His design and conceptualization were developed under the direction of Toyotarou, with specific visual contributions from Toei Animation.
Profile at a Glance
Gokuu Black has the apparent age of Goku, around 30 years, but is actually a manifestation of Zamasu’s consciousness using Goku’s body. He serves as the primary antagonist of the "Future" Trunks Saga. As an ally of Future Zamasu, his signature abilities include divine techniques such as ki manipulation and instant transmission. He wields the Z sword and exhibits a style that combines martial arts with god-like powers.
Personality & Motivations
Gokuu Black embodies a complex and dark disposition characterized by arrogance and sadism. He exhibits a pronounced sense of superiority, viewing mortals as inferior beings that must be exterminated. His motivations are rooted in a twisted interpretation of justice, as he believes that by eliminating all mortals, he can create a "perfect" universe free of chaos. Gokuu Black often delivers taunts and proclamations of his divine superiority, with phrases like “I am Goku Black, the harbinger of your end!” highlighting his villainous demeanor.
Abilities / Powers
Gokuu Black possesses a broad array of combat skills due to having Goku’s body and retaining much of his combat experience. Key abilities include:
- Ki Manipulation: Can unleash energy blasts such as the Kamehameha and Black Kamehameha.
- Instant Transmission: Allows for instantaneous travel across vast distances.
- Super Saiyan Transformations: Has access to Super Saiyan Rosé, which is unique to him as Goku Black.
- Godly Ki: As a Kai, he possesses divine energy that enhances his combat effectiveness and can repel attacks that would injure normal beings.
- Zamasu’s Techniques: He utilizes divine abilities such as Divine Lasso, which binds opponents in a form of energy.
While immensely powerful, Gokuu Black’s reliance on Goku’s physical body and skills means that he can be outmaneuvered if his opponent can predict his fighting style or exploit his overconfidence.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Gokuu Black plays a central role in the Future Trunks Saga. His arc begins with a brutal attack on Earth, leading to the near extinction of humanity. The timeline fork occurs when Zamasu, frustrated with the mortal realms, kills his mentor Gowasu to gain the Potara Earrings and the Time Ring necessary for his plan. This pivotal act sets off a chain reaction leading to Gokuu Black’s birth as he switches bodies with Goku using the Super Dragon Balls. The clash with Future Trunks and his subsequent efforts to destroy all mortals shape his character as a tragic yet formidable villain, raising existential themes about divinity and morality.
Notable Relationships
- Future Trunks: Gokuu Black’s primary rival, representing the last hope for humanity in the future timeline.
- Zamasu: His counterpart and ally; together they aim to enforce "Zero Mortals" through their shared vision.
- Goku: Though he shares Goku’s body, Gokuu Black psychologically despises him, further complicating their dynamic.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
In Episode 56, Gokuu Black showcases the superiority of his powers and his disdain for mortals through his taunts during battles, particularly when he states, "The time for mortals has come to an end!" This moment crystallizes the philosophical underpinnings of his character. Similarly, when he confronts Trunks after killing Mai, the tension underscores the emotional stakes of their conflict, rendering Gokuu Black not just a physical threat but an existential one for those he encounters.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Gokuu Black is voiced by Masako Nozawa in Japanese and by Sean Schemmel in the English dub. His character design and arc have resonated with fans, contributing to his ranking as one of the most popular antagonists in the Dragon Ball franchise, with member favorites reaching 1,684. The philosophical themes surrounding Gokuu Black’s motivations also reflect contemporary societal discussions regarding justice and morality, making him a character with depth that extends beyond traditional villainy. His significance in the series has led to numerous discussions and analyses among the fandom, cementing his legacy within Dragon Ball history.
