Super Android 17: A Controversial Powerhouse in Dragon Ball GT

Introduction

Super Android seventeen remains one of Dragon Ball GT’s most debated characters, a testament to both his formidable power and the divisive nature of the series itself. In the vast and ever-expanding Dragon Ball universe, filled with Saiyans, Namekians, and a multitude of other powerful beings, the existence of this fused Android is frequently met with either fascination or frustration. Dragon Ball GT, conceived as a sequel to Dragon Ball Z but not considered canon within the core storyline established by Akira Toriyama, introduced numerous new concepts and characters, some of which resonated with fans while others fell flat. Super Android seventeen falls squarely into the category of characters that sparked significant discussion. This article delves into the origins, abilities, and controversies surrounding Super Android seventeen, exploring his impact on the Dragon Ball legacy and examining why he continues to be a point of contention among fans.

Genesis of a Synthetic Nightmare

To truly understand Super Android seventeen, we must first revisit the legacy of Doctor Gero, the brilliant but vengeful scientist responsible for creating the Androids in Dragon Ball Z. Doctor Gero sought to exact revenge on Goku for dismantling the Red Ribbon Army, dedicating his life to creating artificial beings capable of surpassing even the strongest Saiyans. His most notable creations, Androids sixteen, seventeen, and eighteen, proved to be formidable opponents, pushing Goku and his allies to their limits. While Android seventeen eventually reformed and became an ally, his past would come back to haunt him in Dragon Ball GT.

The true catalyst for Super Android seventeen’s creation was the emergence of Hell Fighter seventeen. In the depths of Hell, Doctor Gero collaborated with Doctor Myuu, another brilliant but twisted scientist, to create a new version of Android seventeen. This Hell Fighter seventeen was designed to open a portal between Hell and Earth, and ultimately to fuse with the original Android seventeen. The fusion process itself was unnatural and forced, highlighting the desperation and depravity of Doctors Gero and Myuu. It wasn’t a harmonious merging of two individuals but rather a hostile takeover, resulting in a being far more dangerous than either Android seventeen variant could ever be on his own.

The purpose behind Super Android seventeen’s creation was multifaceted. Doctor Gero sought revenge on Goku and the Z Fighters, while Doctor Myuu aimed to use Super Android seventeen to conquer the world and establish a new order under his control. The combined intellect and ambition of these two scientists created a truly menacing threat, one that pushed the Z Fighters to their absolute limits.

Unleashing Unprecedented Power

Super Android seventeen possessed a vast array of powers and abilities that made him one of the most formidable opponents in Dragon Ball GT. His signature ability was energy absorption, which allowed him to absorb any energy-based attack directed at him, rendering it useless and even increasing his own power. This made him virtually invulnerable to traditional ki blasts and energy waves, forcing his opponents to rely on physical attacks. This absorption ability, while incredibly powerful, had potential limitations. Over absorption of energy could lead to instability or even overload. Exploiting this weakness became crucial in his eventual defeat.

Beyond energy absorption, Super Android seventeen possessed immense strength and speed, far surpassing those of the original Android seventeen and even rivaling the power of Super Saiyan four Goku. He could move at blinding speeds, deliver devastating blows, and withstand tremendous amounts of damage. Concrete examples of his strength include easily defeating Android eighteen, who was already a powerful fighter, and overpowering Super Saiyan Goku in their initial encounters.

Super Android seventeen could project powerful energy blasts from his hands and body, capable of causing widespread destruction. He also exhibited unique techniques that were specific to his fused form, often combining energy absorption with physical attacks to create devastating combos. His overall power output was immense, putting him in a league of his own compared to most other villains in Dragon Ball GT.

While power levels in Dragon Ball GT are notoriously inconsistent and difficult to quantify, it’s clear that Super Android seventeen was one of the strongest characters in the series. Based on his performance against Goku and other Z Fighters, it’s safe to say that his power far exceeded that of any previous Android and potentially rivaled some of the most powerful Saiyans.

The Reign of Super Android Seventeen

The Super seventeen Saga marked a significant turning point in Dragon Ball GT. Following the Baby Saga, the Z Fighters found themselves facing a new and unexpected threat in the form of the resurrected Doctors Gero and Myuu and their creation, Hell Fighter seventeen. The events of this saga unfolded quickly, with Hell Fighter seventeen wreaking havoc on Earth and eventually merging with Android seventeen to become Super Android seventeen.

Super Android seventeen’s impact on the Z Fighters was profound. He effortlessly defeated Android eighteen, demonstrating his overwhelming power. He also forced Goku to push himself to his limits, even requiring him to transform into a Super Saiyan four to stand a chance. Vegeta, Gohan, and the other Z Fighters were largely ineffective against Super Android seventeen, highlighting the massive power gap between him and the rest of the team.

The key battles in the Super seventeen Saga centered around Goku’s struggle to overcome Super Android seventeen’s energy absorption ability. Goku tried various techniques, including physical attacks and energy-based moves, but nothing seemed to work. He was constantly on the defensive, struggling to survive against Super Android seventeen’s relentless onslaught. Ultimately, it was Android eighteen’s intervention that provided Goku with the opening he needed to exploit Super Android seventeen’s weakness and defeat him.

Super Android seventeen’s interactions with other characters were also notable. His relationship with Android eighteen was particularly poignant, as she was forced to confront the transformed version of her brother. His interactions with Doctors Gero and Myuu highlighted the twisted nature of his creation and the scientists’ conflicting ambitions.

A Storm of Criticism

Super Android seventeen is one of the most criticized elements of Dragon Ball GT. One common complaint revolves around his character design, which many fans consider uninspired and generic compared to other Dragon Ball villains. His appearance lacks the unique flair and menacing presence of characters like Frieza, Cell, or even Baby.

Another major criticism concerns power scaling issues. Super Android seventeen’s sudden surge in power seemed illogical within the established context of the Dragon Ball universe. The idea that the fusion of two relatively weaker Androids could create a being capable of challenging Super Saiyan four Goku strained credibility for many viewers.

The Super seventeen Saga itself has been criticized for its weak plot, poor pacing, and overall lack of originality. The storyline felt rushed and underdeveloped, and the battles lacked the strategic depth and emotional weight of previous Dragon Ball arcs.

The presence of Super Android seventeen and the associated saga arguably damaged Dragon Ball GT’s reputation. Many fans view the Super seventeen Saga as a low point in the series, contributing to the overall perception of GT as a weaker and less enjoyable sequel to Dragon Ball Z.

Because Dragon Ball GT is not considered part of the main canon, some fans dismiss Super Android seventeen entirely. His non-canon status diminishes his significance in the broader Dragon Ball narrative, making him a footnote in the franchise’s history for some.

A Divisive Legacy

Fan reception to Super Android seventeen is overwhelmingly negative, but he does have some defenders. Some appreciate his unique energy absorption ability and the challenge he posed to Goku. Others find his character design to be aesthetically pleasing, despite its perceived lack of originality.

Despite the mixed reactions, Super Android seventeen has made appearances in various Dragon Ball video games, figures, and other merchandise. His inclusion in these products demonstrates that he remains a recognizable and marketable character, even if he is not universally loved.

It is debatable whether Super Android seventeen has influenced any elements in later Dragon Ball series like Super. Some argue that his energy absorption ability may have inspired the creation of characters like Moro, who also possess similar powers. However, there is no direct evidence to support this claim.

Ultimately, Super Android seventeen is perhaps an underrated character. While he is undoubtedly flawed and part of a controversial saga, he also brought a unique element to the Dragon Ball universe. He forced the Z Fighters to confront a new type of threat, one that could not be defeated through traditional means. He also highlighted the dangers of unchecked ambition and the twisted consequences of scientific experimentation.

Conclusion

Super Android seventeen remains a complex and controversial figure in the Dragon Ball universe. His creation, powers, and role in Dragon Ball GT have been the subject of intense debate among fans for years. While he is not without his flaws, he also represents a unique and potentially underrated character.

Whether you view him as a failed experiment or a fascinating addition to the Dragon Ball mythos, Super Android seventeen undoubtedly left his mark on the franchise. He challenged the Z Fighters, pushed Goku to his limits, and sparked countless discussions among fans. He is a reminder that even in a universe filled with powerful Saiyans and otherworldly beings, the greatest threats can sometimes come from the most unexpected places.

What are your thoughts on Super Android seventeen? Do you think he’s a worthy addition to the Dragon Ball universe?