So, let’s get straight into it – this is Dragon Ball we’re talking about. While the rubber design still kinda bugs me, and one episode can’t just erase all the mistakes the series has made so far, I have to admit, today I felt a rush of emotions. After more than 20 years, Akira Toriyama (rest in peace) has basically made one of the most iconic transformations in anime history official.
The SSJ4 is back, and it’s all thanks to Neva, the creator of the dragon spheres from the demonic kingdom. This little detail allows the anime to justify the appearance of a new transformation that, up until now, wasn’t part of the Super series. In other words, it wouldn’t have been possible without Neva’s intervention. At least, not for now – who knows, maybe Toyotaro will find a way to bring it back in the future. But, for now, let’s not get too caught up in lore theories and whatnot. Today, I just wanna talk to fellow Dragon Ball fans about what’s got us all excited.
Super Saiyan 4 is officially part of the canon
As of today, February 14, 2025, the Super Saiyan 4 transformation is officially canon. And, yeah, the design might be a bit different, but the essence is still the same. The hair color and pupils might not be identical, but this Goku is the same one we fell in love with back on January 22, 1997. If you’re not keeping track, that’s the day the SSJ4 first appeared in Japan. A lot has happened since then, but the feeling is still the same. I mean, the transformation scene in Daima might not be as emotional as it was in GT, but that doesn’t take away from what Daima has accomplished.
You just have to look at social media – half the world is celebrating this like it’s a holiday. And, let’s be real, this season has been all over the place, so this might just be one of the best things that’s happened to Dragon Ball fans in a long time. Plus, the design is just stunning. I mean, have you seen Goku’s hands? They’re huge, kinda like a gorilla’s. And the way he moves in combat, it’s like he’s a primate or something. The frame where his eyes shine with those two red rings? Pure cinema.
I’m not gonna say that this one transformation suddenly makes Daima a great series or anything, ’cause that’s a whole other debate. But what I will say, without a doubt, is that this has brought a lot of joy to fans. After such an erratic season, and with no news about the future of the manga or the franchise, we really needed something like this. It’s almost like a parting gift from Toriyama himself, you know? It’s a shame I couldn’t see it in person, but…
