Was Bardock Canonically the First Super Saiyan?
In the rich and vast universe of Dragon Ball, one of the most profound transformations is that of the Super Saiyan. However, when it comes to Bardock, many fans and scholars have debated his status as the first Saiyan to achieve this form. Let's delve into the official canon and explore the true tale behind the legendary transformation.
The Canon of the First Super Saiyan
According to the official manga and Dragon Ball Super, Bardock is not considered canonically the first Super Saiyan. While his story contributes significantly to the lore of Dragon Ball, he does not hold the title of being the first Saiyan to transform into a Super Saiyan in the established canon.
Yamoshi: The True First Super Saiyan
While Bardock's journey is revered among fans, the official canon credits Yamoshi as the first Super Saiyan and the first to transform into a Super Saiyan God. In the Battle of the Gods, Yamoshi is seen in silhouette form, and his significance is integral to the narrative of Dragon Ball. His transformation marked the beginning of the legendary Saiyan tradition that Freiza feared so much.
Yamoshi's transformation started the legend that would eventually lead to the destruction of Planet Vegeta, having Freiza question the loyalty and trust of his people. His story is a significant piece of the Dragon Ball canon, and his transformation is not just a celebrated moment but a moment of crucial importance that shaped the direction of the series.
It's important to note that the original story of Bardock was primarily in films and spin-offs, and while the vision of Bardock as the first Super Saiyan was an inspiring one, it was ultimately retconned to align with the main narrative when it was Toriyama's watch.
Bardock's Role in the Story
Bardock's transformation into a Super Saiyan was made more generalized and changed to fit newer narratives. In Dragon Ball Super: Broly and the TV special Dragon Ball Minus, Bardock is portrayed as being intuitive, correctly surmising that Freiza's sudden request that all Saiyans return was suspicious. The transformation that Bardock undergoes in Broly Movie and Dragon Ball Minus is not considered "canon" due to the retconning of events that followed.
The Search for the Original Super Saiyan God
Regarding the first Super Saiyan God, it is important to acknowledge that there is no official Original Super Saiyan God in the Dragon Ball canon. Freiza only recognized a Super Saiyan God, likely Broly, as the first to achieve the transformation. While Bardock never went Super Saiyan God and the transformation he achieved in movies and spin-offs is not part of the main Dragon Ball timeline, the concept of a Super Saiyan God is much more complex and remains an enigma within the franchise.
For those seeking the closest thing to the "original Super Saiyan God," Shallot from Dragon Ball Legends comes into play. However, even Shallot’s status is not entirely clear as he is part of the side continuity and not officially part of the Dragon Ball main series.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Bardock, while a legendary character and an influential figure in Dragon Ball's lore, is not canonically the first Super Saiyan. Yamoshi holds the title of the first in the established canon. His transformation not only marked the beginning of a lineage of powerful Saiyans but also set the stage for the emergence of the Super Saiyan God and the broader narrative of Dragon Ball.