The Dragon Ball franchise is known for its intense battles, cosmic power scaling, and unforgettable characters. But beneath the explosive action lies one of its most underrated strengths—character growth. While some fighters remain stoic warriors or comic relief, others undergo profound changes that redefine their motivations, morality, and relationships. Whether through redemption arcs, hard-earned maturity, or philosophical awakenings, these ten characters have showcased the richest and most compelling development across Dragon Ball’s multi-series saga. This list celebrates those whose evolution left a lasting impact on fans and the narrative itself.
#1: Vegeta
Once introduced as a ruthless Saiyan prince with nothing but contempt for Earth and its defenders, Vegeta’s character journey is among the most compelling in anime history. Initially a villain driven by pride, destruction, and his own Saiyan heritage, Vegeta first arrived on Earth seeking the Dragon Balls to gain immortality. His arrogance, indifference to life, and brutal efficiency made him a perfect foil to Goku’s cheerful determination. But over time, his pride became the crucible through which he was reshaped—not discarded, but refined. After his initial defeat on Earth, Vegeta didn’t retreat into obscurity or remain a static antagonist. His grudging alliance with the Z Fighters during the Frieza Saga marked the first true crack in his armor. While his hatred for Frieza pushed him into a cooperative role, it was the humiliation and powerlessness he experienced on Namek that began to transform him. The tears he shed before dying at Frieza’s hands revealed a man whose inner pain ran deeper than anyone had expected. His motivations shifted from conquest to proving himself not just as the strongest, but as someone worthy of respect and love—especially when juxtaposed with Goku’s growing legacy. Vegeta’s arc is never about completely becoming “good” in the traditional sense. Instead, it’s about struggling with his violent past, his inferiority complex regarding Goku, and his slowly softening heart. One of the most pivotal moments in Dragon Ball Z is his self-sacrifice during the Majin Buu saga. After allowing Babidi to manipulate him in a moment of weakness, Vegeta ultimately chooses to protect his family and Earth, giving his life in a rare act of selfless heroism. His farewell to Trunks, coupled with a tearful acknowledgment of his love, is one of the most emotionally charged scenes in the series. In Dragon Ball Super, Vegeta continues to evolve. His rivalry with Goku matures into mutual respect, and his role as a father and husband becomes a source of grounded motivation. His training under Whis and even Beerus shows a version of Vegeta that seeks power not through domination, but self-mastery. Notably, his refusal to use Ultra Instinct—choosing instead to forge his own path—illustrates his independence and growth. His heartfelt tribute to the Namekians and his protection of Universe 6’s Saiyans further highlight the extent of his transformation. Quotes like, “I do this for you, Bulma… and yes, even for you, Kakarot,” reflect how far he’s come. No longer a lone wolf haunted by pride and rage, Vegeta becomes a multidimensional character balancing strength, vulnerability, and redemption. He may still be blunt, short-tempered, and cocky, but those traits now coexist with honor, loyalty, and compassion. Vegeta’s development is a masterclass in gradual storytelling. He doesn’t change overnight, and his flaws never completely vanish. But every scar, every setback, and every hard-won victory contributes to a legacy of growth that makes him one of the richest characters not just in Dragon Ball, but in all of anime.
#2: Piccolo
Piccolo’s transformation from a vengeful villain into one of the Z Fighters’ wisest mentors is one of the most enduring character arcs in Dragon Ball. Born from the evil half of Kami, Piccolo began as the reincarnation of King Piccolo, determined to conquer the world and kill Goku to avenge his predecessor’s defeat. In his earliest appearances during the 23rd Tenkaichi Budokai, he was cruel, arrogant, and completely consumed by the goal of world domination. But Piccolo’s journey would soon become one of unexpected mentorship, redemption, and self-discovery. The pivotal turning point in Piccolo’s development begins during the Saiyan Saga. Tasked with preparing Earth for the oncoming threat, he takes Goku’s son, Gohan, under his wing—not out of kindness, but strategy. However, what began as a cold, calculated training regimen blossoms into a bond that neither anticipated. His stoic exterior gradually gives way to something more profound: attachment, and even affection. When Piccolo sacrifices himself to save Gohan from Nappa’s attack, it marks the first time he places another’s life above his own. His dying words—”You’re the only one… who ever treated me like a person…”—are heart-wrenching, revealing a soul long starved of compassion. From that point forward, Piccolo evolves into one of the Z Fighters’ core defenders, not only through strength but wisdom. His Namekian fusion with Nail and later Kami creates a more complete version of himself—one who finally reconciles with his dual nature. The fusion with Kami is especially symbolic; it represents his growth from a being of pure vengeance into a being of unity and peace. It’s no coincidence that after merging, Piccolo becomes the most level-headed strategist in the group. He often acts as the moral compass when others lose their cool and is trusted to make difficult decisions in high-stakes moments. Piccolo’s personality balances stoicism with mentorship. He doesn’t chase power for its own sake, nor does he let his ego cloud his purpose. His relationship with Gohan continues to be a major pillar of his story. He encourages Gohan’s development, often stepping into a role that blends teacher, uncle, and father figure. Their interactions remain among the most heartfelt in the series, with Piccolo’s tough love and quiet encouragement shaping Gohan’s maturity. In Dragon Ball Super and especially in Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero, Piccolo’s growth continues in subtle yet meaningful ways. He becomes even more integrated into Earth’s society, participating in everyday life and even getting a smartphone at Pan’s urging. His love for training Pan echoes the early days with Gohan, creating a generational bond. His transformation into Orange Piccolo, while visually dramatic, symbolizes his enduring role as Earth’s stalwart protector—always evolving, always adapting, yet rooted in wisdom and compassion. Piccolo’s development is a story of identity. From being a splinter of evil to becoming a fully realized being capable of great love and sacrifice, he embodies the Dragon Ball theme of transformation—not just of power levels, but of the soul. Quiet, contemplative, and fiercely loyal, Piccolo’s growth feels natural, emotional, and timeless. He doesn’t seek the spotlight, but his presence is always felt, a testament to the incredible journey he’s undergone.
#3: Gohan
Gohan’s arc is one of the most layered and complex in the Dragon Ball series, marked by peaks of untapped potential and valleys of inner conflict. Introduced as the timid child of Goku and Chi-Chi, Gohan begins his journey afraid of fighting yet possessing a power that rivals, and sometimes surpasses, his father’s. What makes his development so compelling is the interplay between his innate pacifism and the responsibilities thrust upon him by the chaos around him. During the Saiyan Saga, Gohan’s cowardice often seems like a liability, but his moments of courage—such as attacking Raditz to protect his father—hint at something deeper. Under Piccolo’s brutal training, Gohan begins to understand hardship and strength, developing resilience while maintaining his kindness. This duality makes him unique: a warrior with a scholar’s soul. It’s a theme that persists throughout his story. Gohan’s defining moment comes during the Cell Saga. As a teenager, he becomes the first character to achieve Super Saiyan 2, triggered not by a desire for power but by a furious sense of justice when Cell pushes him too far. His rage-fueled explosion stands as one of the most iconic scenes in the franchise—backed by raw emotion, not just raw energy. Yet even in victory, Gohan doesn’t become power-hungry. Instead, he’s haunted by the consequences of hesitation, notably when Goku dies because of his failure to finish Cell quickly. After the Cell Games, Gohan’s character development takes an unconventional turn. Unlike many heroes who double down on combat, Gohan tries to fulfill his mother’s dream of becoming a scholar. He leads a relatively peaceful life in the Great Saiyaman era, balancing studies and crime-fighting in a humorous, almost satirical way. Some fans lament his reduced power in the Buu Saga, but that itself is part of his arc—he’s someone trying to step away from violence while still honoring his responsibility. Dragon Ball Super and Super Hero rekindle Gohan’s latent potential. His transformation into Beast Gohan in the latter film echoes his Cell Saga climax—born out of a need to protect those he loves. Gohan’s development isn’t linear, but deeply human. He struggles with expectations, balances family life, and eventually reconciles his identities as both a scholar and a protector. Gohan’s journey is about self-discovery. He doesn’t follow the traditional warrior path, and that’s what makes him resonate. His development reminds us that true strength isn’t always about domination—it’s about purpose, restraint, and compassion.
#4: Future Trunks
Future Trunks’ character arc is deeply rooted in tragedy, resilience, and hope. Unlike his present-day counterpart, Future Trunks grows up in a dystopian world ravaged by Androids 17 and 18. Raised by Bulma without his father Vegeta, and trained by a battle-hardened Gohan, Trunks embodies the consequences of failure and the burden of responsibility. When he first appears in Dragon Ball Z, Trunks immediately makes a strong impression—calm, mature, and devastatingly powerful. His instant kill of Frieza and King Cold not only shocks fans but showcases how different he is from the Z Fighters. Unlike most characters who grow through friendship and peace, Trunks is a product of desperation. Every moment of his life has been shaped by survival, which makes his early maturity all the more believable. His character growth unfolds across several arcs. In the Cell Saga, Trunks works tirelessly to change his timeline by helping the past. He gains a new understanding of strength and humility, especially through training with Vegeta. Their father-son dynamic is fraught with distance and tension at first, but Vegeta’s pride in Trunks during his sacrifice against Cell shows a softening that deeply affects Trunks’ outlook. When Trunks returns to his timeline and defeats the Androids and Cell, it’s a payoff that symbolizes his growth into a true savior. In Dragon Ball Super, Trunks returns more emotionally nuanced than ever. The Goku Black arc pushes him to the brink, revealing his guilt over being unable to protect his world despite all he sacrificed. His rage-fueled transformation into Super Saiyan Rage, powered by both fury and hope, illustrates the emotional depth of his evolution. His bond with Mai and his faith in humanity’s potential add warmth to his otherwise heavy narrative. Trunks’ character development is shaped by adversity, but it’s his refusal to give up hope that defines him. He’s not the strongest, but he’s one of the bravest—a symbol of perseverance in a world where the odds were always against him.
#5: Android 18
Android 18’s evolution from a cold, sarcastic villain to a loving wife, mother, and fierce defender of Earth is a testament to Dragon Ball’s ability to humanize even its most unexpected characters. Introduced as one half of a destructive sibling duo under Dr. Gero’s control, 18 at first seemed irredeemable—an aloof, deadly warrior who took pleasure in overpowering the Z Fighters with ease. However, the seeds of development are planted early. Unlike her brother, 18 displays curiosity and independence, challenging commands and teasing opponents with a sly, almost playful tone. Her fight with Vegeta remains iconic not just for its brutality but for the cool confidence she exudes. Yet it’s after Cell absorbs her and she’s later rescued that her trajectory truly shifts. The most surprising turn is her relationship with Krillin. It begins subtly, with Krillin sparing her life using the self-destruct remote. This moment of mercy becomes a catalyst for 18’s change. Though initially confused, she begins to see Krillin’s kindness as something rare and genuine. Their marriage—seemingly improbable at first—becomes one of Dragon Ball’s most stable and surprisingly wholesome relationships. By the time of Dragon Ball Super, 18 is fully integrated into Earth’s society. She retains her edge—sharp wit, unshakeable confidence—but channels it into protecting her loved ones. Her participation in the Tournament of Power showcases her strength, team loyalty, and sharp strategy. She fights not for power or revenge, but for her family and the universe’s survival. Android 18’s development is subtle yet impactful. She’s proof that even those created for destruction can find peace, love, and purpose. She never loses her personality—cool, sarcastic, and unfazed—but she gains something even more valuable: a sense of belonging.
#6: Krillin
Krillin may not be the most powerful fighter in the Dragon Ball universe, but he arguably undergoes one of the most grounded and relatable transformations across the series. Introduced as Goku’s mischievous training partner during their days under Master Roshi, Krillin begins as a jealous and slightly selfish boy who’s desperate to prove himself. But over time, Krillin evolves into one of the most courageous, selfless, and emotionally mature characters in the entire franchise. From the early tournaments to the grueling battles on Namek, Krillin consistently steps up despite being outclassed. His death at the hands of Tambourine in Dragon Ball is one of the first real emotional shocks of the series, serving as the moment Goku loses his innocence. In Dragon Ball Z, Krillin is integral during the Frieza Saga. His decision to trust and spare Vegeta is a moment of maturity, while his bonding with Dende and Gohan shows his increasingly protective nature. The most pivotal moment comes when his death at Frieza’s hands triggers Goku’s first Super Saiyan transformation—cementing Krillin’s legacy in Dragon Ball history. Unlike the Saiyans, Krillin’s development is not about ascending to godlike levels but about inner growth. He retires from fighting after the Cell Saga, choosing instead to settle down and build a peaceful life. Marrying Android 18 and becoming a father to Marron, Krillin adapts into a different kind of strength—one rooted in love, responsibility, and stability. In many ways, Krillin becomes a symbol of the human spirit’s perseverance, willing to face gods and monsters armed only with courage and conviction. Dragon Ball Super revisits Krillin’s internal struggles, especially his crisis of confidence. In a standout moment, he overcomes his fear by facing phantoms of past villains, proving that bravery isn’t about power but about resolve. He even steps into the Tournament of Power, holding his own and contributing tactically. His pride in being human, even in the face of cosmic odds, is his greatest asset. Krillin’s development is a quiet triumph. He grows from a sidekick into a symbol of grit and emotional depth, earning his place as one of the franchise’s most beloved and human characters.
#7: Bulma
Though not a fighter, Bulma’s development is nothing short of remarkable. She begins as a teenage genius with a selfish streak, focused on finding the Dragon Balls for a perfect boyfriend. But over the course of the franchise, she matures into a formidable woman whose intellect, courage, and emotional intelligence drive much of Dragon Ball’s progress—both narratively and technologically. Bulma is one of the few characters present from the very beginning. Initially a comic relief figure, she quickly proves she’s more than just brains or vanity. Her dynamic with Goku offers early levity, but her role deepens with each arc. In the Namek Saga, she navigates survival in an alien world, often using her wits to compensate for her lack of combat ability. While others train, she invents. While others fight, she plans. Her genius becomes an irreplaceable asset to the Z Fighters. Her relationship with Vegeta reveals one of Dragon Ball’s most surprising and rewarding developments. Their union is unexpected, yet it humanizes both characters. Bulma’s unwavering love and sharp tongue balance Vegeta’s pride and aloofness. She doesn’t try to change him but helps him evolve by simply believing in his better side. The fact that the proud Saiyan warrior finds comfort in someone as fiercely independent as Bulma adds layers to both their characters. In Dragon Ball Super, Bulma becomes even more vital. Her scientific advancements—like time machines, gravity chambers, and inter-universe communications—are crucial to the plot. Her interactions with Beerus and Whis also show her unshaken nerve, standing her ground even before gods. She’s also a fantastic mother, nurturing Trunks with a blend of compassion and tough love. Bulma’s growth is a triumph of intellect, heart, and fierce independence. She doesn’t need superpowers to be one of the strongest characters in Dragon Ball. Her development showcases the strength of being human in a world of gods and monsters.
#8: Frieza
While not traditionally “redeemed,” Frieza’s arc in Dragon Ball Super recontextualizes one of the franchise’s most iconic villains. Initially, Frieza is the embodiment of evil—arrogant, genocidal, and power-hungry. His actions on Namek define the darkest parts of Dragon Ball Z, especially his merciless slaughter of Saiyans, his cruelty toward Vegeta, and the murder of Krillin that triggered Goku’s Super Saiyan awakening. For decades, Frieza was seen as a static villain—an absolute symbol of destruction. But Dragon Ball Super challenges that. Resurrected in the “Resurrection F” arc, Frieza is given a chance to train seriously for the first time in his life. In doing so, he achieves the powerful Golden Frieza form, proving that even the most arrogant of beings can grow under pressure. His defeat doesn’t end his story. During the Tournament of Power, Frieza becomes an uneasy ally—fighting alongside Goku and the Z Fighters to save Universe 7. What makes this development so fascinating is that Frieza never becomes “good.” He remains manipulative, conniving, and narcissistic, but his cooperation is strategic and calculated. That nuance adds depth to his character. He respects Goku’s power, despises Jiren, and helps Universe 7 win not out of morality, but ambition. Still, there’s a twisted honor to his actions in the tournament, particularly in his final joint effort with Goku to eliminate Jiren. It’s a breathtaking moment of irony and tension—Goku and Frieza, sworn enemies, saving the universe together. By the end of Super, Frieza is revived and reinstates his empire. His development isn’t about redemption—it’s about evolution. He learns the limits of his cruelty, the strength of cooperation, and the importance of calculated restraint. He’s still a villain, but now one with layers and a frightening level of adaptability. Frieza’s character arc reminds us that growth doesn’t always mean redemption. Sometimes, it means sharpening your evil into something even more dangerous—and interesting.
#9: Beerus
Introduced as a god of destruction, Beerus appears to be another unstoppable antagonist in the Dragon Ball universe. But as the series progresses, he transforms from a looming threat into a surprisingly charming and layered figure. Initially portrayed as flippant and terrifying—destroying planets for trivial reasons—Beerus is soon revealed to be more complex, with a sense of cosmic balance, deep history, and even occasional wisdom. His interactions with Goku are central to his evolution. Rather than destroy Earth outright, Beerus becomes fascinated by Goku’s potential and willingness to challenge gods. It’s through Goku’s audacity and the power of Super Saiyan God that Beerus begins to show curiosity rather than cruelty. His decision to spare Earth after their fight marks the first step in a long arc of reorientation—from destroyer to teacher, and at times, protector. Beerus’ relationship with Whis and later with the Z Fighters reveals a surprising camaraderie. He enjoys food, laziness, and humorous interactions with Bulma, but he also offers serious mentorship. While he doesn’t train Goku and Vegeta directly like Whis, his presence and high expectations push them toward new heights. His moments of introspection—especially when faced with beings like Zeno—show a side of him that understands his role in the cosmic hierarchy. He also shows growth in restraint. Whether it’s sparing mortals or letting others handle threats, Beerus’ decisions show a maturing approach to his responsibilities. He’s no longer a ticking time bomb of destruction but a guardian of equilibrium, however aloof he may seem. Beerus evolves without ever losing what makes him compelling—his unpredictable nature and vast power. His arc is about learning to coexist, finding fascination in mortals, and balancing his godly duties with his surprisingly human quirks.
#10: Majin Buu
Majin Buu’s arc is the most drastic and surreal in the franchise. Initially introduced as a childish yet horrifyingly powerful entity, Buu begins as an agent of chaos. His original form is pure destruction, seemingly incapable of empathy or reasoning. But through interaction, kindness, and rejection of cruelty, Buu slowly develops a conscience—eventually splitting into two versions: the evil Super Buu and the innocent Fat Buu. Fat Buu’s bond with Mr. Satan is the heart of his development. Through friendship, laughter, and food, Buu begins to understand concepts like happiness, loyalty, and protection. This unexpected relationship with Earth’s most comical “champion” creates real emotional depth. Mr. Satan’s influence doesn’t just soften Buu; it saves the world. When Buu resists his darker side, it marks one of the most unexpected acts of growth in Dragon Ball. Even after his evil half is defeated, Buu remains an odd but beloved member of the Z Fighters. In Dragon Ball Super, he trains, naps excessively, and even participates in tournaments. His power remains immense, but it’s his innocence and kindness that now define him. Majin Buu’s arc—from force of nature to sleepy, candy-loving hero—is one of the weirdest and most endearing transformations in the series. It proves that even beings created for destruction can, through love and laughter, find peace and belonging.
