The Echoes of Super Seventeen: A Dragon Ball GT Retrospective
Android Seventeen, a character who once embodied calculated villainy, has blossomed into a selfless protector of the innocent within the sprawling narrative of *Dragon Ball Super*. His journey from a formidable antagonist to a Tournament of Power MVP has solidified his position as a fan favorite. But lurking in the shadows of Dragon Ball history is a controversial concept: Super Seventeen, a creation born from the non-canon *Dragon Ball GT* series. This article dives deep into the intriguing possibility of a Super Seventeen gracing the *Dragon Ball Super* universe, exploring potential avenues for its introduction, dissecting how it might differ from its *GT* counterpart, and assessing the overall likelihood of this powerful fusion becoming a reality. Could *Dragon Ball Super* revisit the concept of Super Seventeen? Let’s dive into the possibilities, potential changes, and the likelihood of this powerful fusion appearing in the current canon.
Before we can consider the potential future of Super Seventeen in *Dragon Ball Super*, it’s essential to revisit its past. Super Seventeen emerged in *Dragon Ball GT* as a twisted creation of Doctor Gero and Doctor Myuu, a culmination of their robotic engineering prowess. The fusion involved two iterations of Android Seventeen: the version we know and love, and Hell Fighter Seventeen, an artificially constructed duplicate from the depths of the underworld. This unholy union resulted in Super Seventeen, a being of immense power capable of absorbing energy attacks and unleashing devastating blows. He proved to be a considerable challenge for even Super Saiyan Four Goku.
However, the Super Seventeen arc in *Dragon Ball GT* was met with mixed reactions from fans. Some criticized the arc’s pacing, finding it rushed and lacking in narrative depth. Others took issue with Super Seventeen’s character design, deeming it uninspired and lacking the visual flair of other Dragon Ball villains. A recurring point of contention was the inconsistency of his powers, particularly his vulnerability during energy absorption phases. The fusion itself felt convoluted, relying on less-than-convincing justifications.
The Realm of Possibilities: Why Super Seventeen *Could* Appear in Dragon Ball Super
Despite the criticisms leveled at the original iteration, there remain compelling reasons why the concept of Super Seventeen could be resurrected in *Dragon Ball Super*, albeit in a reimagined form.
The vastness of the multiverse plays a crucial role. *Dragon Ball Super* has wholeheartedly embraced the concept of alternate universes, each populated with unique characters, histories, and potential threats. It’s entirely plausible that a variation of Super Seventeen exists within one of these alternate realities, perhaps born from different circumstances or possessing a distinct set of abilities.
Android Seventeen’s newfound prominence within the *Dragon Ball Super* narrative adds further weight to the possibility. His impressive performance in the Tournament of Power demonstrated his immense power and unwavering dedication to protecting his loved ones. Imagine a scenario where Seventeen faces a threat so overwhelming that he’s forced to consider extreme measures, pushing him towards a desperate fusion for survival.
The presence of parallel timelines or dimensions adds to the potential. What if, instead of having the hell fighter, there are other alternate forms of Seventeen within other timelines? Their fusion could result in a character closer to the Super Seventeen from Dragonball GT.
*Dragon Ball Super* has shown a willingness to revisit and refine previously explored concepts. Consider the transformations of Super Saiyan God and Super Saiyan Blue, which built upon the Super Saiyan foundation established in *Dragon Ball Z*. Similarly, a *Dragon Ball Super* iteration of Super Seventeen could be reimagined, addressing the shortcomings of the *GT* version and creating a more compelling and believable character.
Remodeling the Android: Envisioning a Superior Super Seventeen
If Super Seventeen were to appear in *Dragon Ball Super*, it would necessitate a significant overhaul to address the criticisms of its predecessor.
One critical area is the fusion itself. The convoluted explanation in *Dragon Ball GT* involving Hell Fighter Seventeen felt contrived. A *Dragon Ball Super* version could explore alternative, more scientifically plausible methods of fusion, perhaps involving advanced technology or unique energy manipulation techniques. Another exciting possibility is a fusion with a different character altogether. Imagine Seventeen fusing with another powerful android, a being from a different universe, or even a resurrected adversary, resulting in a truly unpredictable outcome.
The power scaling of Super Seventeen would also require careful consideration. The *GT* version, while powerful, would need to be adjusted to align with the current power levels in *Dragon Ball Super*. This could involve exploring new training methods, unlocking dormant potential within Android Seventeen, or harnessing the energy of a different universe.
The motivations behind the fusion would need to be clearly defined and deeply rooted in the story. A desperate attempt to protect his family, a calculated gamble to defeat an insurmountable foe, or even a forced fusion orchestrated by a malevolent entity could provide compelling narrative drivers. A Super Seventeen arc could seamlessly integrate into existing storylines or introduce new, overarching threats that resonate with the themes of *Dragon Ball Super*.
The character design itself presents an opportunity for significant improvement. The *GT* version lacked visual distinction and felt generic. A *Dragon Ball Super* iteration could draw inspiration from more contemporary anime designs, incorporating unique armor, energy signatures, or physical transformations that reflect the fusion’s power and origins.
Crucially, a *Dragon Ball Super* Super Seventeen arc would need to avoid the pacing and plot issues that plagued the *GT* version. A more focused narrative, stronger character development, and a clear sense of stakes would be essential to create a truly memorable experience.
Doubt and Discord: The Case Against Super Seventeen
Despite the compelling arguments for its potential inclusion, it’s important to acknowledge the reasons why Super Seventeen is unlikely to appear in *Dragon Ball Super*.
*Dragon Ball Super* has primarily focused on introducing original characters, storylines, and transformations. The series has carved its own unique identity, separate from the narrative threads of *Dragon Ball GT*. Revisiting *GT* concepts, even in a reimagined form, might be perceived as creatively limiting, hindering the series’ ability to forge its own path.
The legacy of *Dragon Ball GT* casts a long shadow. The series’ mixed reception and non-canon status might deter the creators of *Dragon Ball Super* from directly adapting elements from it. The risk of alienating fans or triggering negative comparisons could outweigh the potential benefits of bringing back Super Seventeen.
The ever-escalating power levels within the Dragon Ball universe are a constant source of debate among fans. Introducing another incredibly powerful character like Super Seventeen could further complicate the power scaling, making it increasingly difficult to create believable threats and maintain a sense of narrative consistency.
Fan Theories and Whispers of Possibility
Despite the uncertainty surrounding its potential appearance, Super Seventeen has captured the imagination of Dragon Ball fans. Numerous theories and speculations abound on online forums and social media. Some fans envision Android Seventeen unlocking a new form of power by absorbing the energy of a powerful opponent, inadvertently transforming into a Super Seventeen-like entity. Others speculate on the possibility of a *Dragon Ball Super* character possessing abilities similar to Super Seventeen, perhaps a being from another universe with the power to absorb energy and unleash devastating attacks. Fan art depicting various interpretations of a *Dragon Ball Super* Super Seventeen is readily available online, showcasing the creative energy and passion of the Dragon Ball community. These reimagined designs often incorporate elements from Android Seventeen’s current appearance, blending his heroic persona with the menacing aura of the *GT* version.
The Verdict: A Fusion of Hope and Uncertainty
The prospect of a Super Seventeen appearing in *Dragon Ball Super* is a complex and multifaceted issue. While the original *GT* version suffered from narrative and design flaws, the concept possesses untapped potential that could be realized within the framework of *Dragon Ball Super*. The vast multiverse, Android Seventeen’s newfound prominence, and the series’ willingness to revisit and refine old ideas all contribute to the possibility of a reimagined Super Seventeen gracing our screens.
However, the series’ focus on originality, the legacy of *Dragon Ball GT*, and the ever-present concerns about power scaling present significant obstacles. Ultimately, the decision rests with the creators of *Dragon Ball Super*. Whether they choose to embrace the challenge of reimagining Super Seventeen or remain focused on forging new paths remains to be seen.
What are your thoughts on a Super Seventeen in *Dragon Ball Super*? Would you like to see it, and how would you want it to be handled? Let’s hear your ideas in the comments below!
