Android 20 Dragon Ball

Android 20, also known as Dr. Gero, is a pivotal character in the Dragon Ball saga, particularly in the Android and Cell arcs. His relentless pursuit of revenge against Goku and his advanced scientific creations significantly shaped the events of the series. This article delves into the history, powers, motivations, and impact of Android 20 Dragon Ball, offering a comprehensive overview for both longtime fans and newcomers to the Dragon Ball universe. We’ll explore his origins, his transformation into an Android, his role in creating the other Androids, and his ultimate downfall.

[Image: Dr. Gero as Android 20 facing Goku and the Z Fighters]

The Origins of Dr. Gero

Early Life and Scientific Pursuits

Dr. Gero was a brilliant but disgruntled scientist who served the Red Ribbon Army. His primary focus was on creating powerful artificial humans to aid the army in their world domination plans. Even after the Red Ribbon Army’s defeat at the hands of Goku, Gero harbored a deep-seated hatred for Goku and dedicated his life to developing technology that could surpass Goku’s Saiyan abilities. This obsession led him down a dark path, ultimately transforming himself into Android 20 Dragon Ball.

Relationship with the Red Ribbon Army

Dr. Gero’s association with the Red Ribbon Army provided him with the resources and facilities needed to conduct his research. Although the army was eventually dismantled, Gero continued his work in secret, driven by his personal vendetta and scientific ambition. The Red Ribbon Army’s legacy lived on through his creations, which posed a significant threat to the Z Fighters.

Transformation into Android 20

The Process of Becoming an Android

Driven by his desire for revenge and a means to achieve immortality, Dr. Gero underwent a radical transformation, transferring his mind into an artificial body. This process turned him into Android 20 Dragon Ball, a cyborg with enhanced strength, speed, and the ability to absorb energy. While he retained his intellect and scientific knowledge, he sacrificed his humanity in pursuit of power.

Enhancements and Abilities

As Android 20 Dragon Ball, Dr. Gero gained several notable abilities:

• Energy Absorption: He could absorb energy from his opponents through the palms of his hands, weakening them and replenishing his own power.
• Enhanced Strength and Speed: His artificial body granted him superhuman physical capabilities.
• Immortality: Technically, his aging process was halted, making him virtually immortal as long as his core remained intact.

Weaknesses and Limitations

Despite his enhancements, Android 20 had several weaknesses:

• Dependence on Energy Absorption: His power relied heavily on absorbing energy, making him vulnerable against opponents who could avoid physical contact.
• Limited Power Compared to Other Androids: He was significantly weaker than Androids 17 and 18, whom he created.
• Vulnerability of Core: His core was a critical weak point; damaging it could disable or destroy him.

The Creation of the Other Androids

Androids 16, 17, and 18

Dr. Gero’s most notable creations were Androids 16, 17, and 18. These were powerful artificial humans designed to kill Goku. Androids 17 and 18 were originally human, but they were kidnapped and modified by Dr. Gero. Android 16 was entirely mechanical and programmed to hate Goku, although he later developed his own sense of justice.

The Programming and Control Dilemma

Dr. Gero struggled to control Androids 17 and 18, who were rebellious and independent. Their disobedience ultimately led to his downfall. This highlights the ethical considerations of creating artificial beings with advanced intelligence and free will. The androids’ actions often defied Gero’s programming, showcasing the unpredictable nature of artificial intelligence.

Android 20’s Motivations and Goals

Revenge Against Goku

Dr. Gero’s primary motivation was to exact revenge on Goku for defeating the Red Ribbon Army. He saw Goku as a threat to his ambitions and dedicated his life to creating beings capable of surpassing Goku’s power. This personal vendetta drove his scientific pursuits and ultimately led to his transformation into Android 20.

World Domination Ambitions

While revenge was a significant factor, Dr. Gero also harbored ambitions of world domination. He believed that his artificial humans could establish a new world order with him at the helm. This ambition aligned with the Red Ribbon Army’s original goals, making him a persistent threat to global peace.

Key Battles and Encounters

The First Encounter with the Z Fighters

Android 20 made his first appearance alongside Android 19, attacking Goku and the Z Fighters. During this battle, Goku began to suffer from a heart virus, weakening him and giving Android 20 an advantage. This encounter marked the beginning of the Android saga and set the stage for future conflicts.

Battles with Vegeta and Piccolo

After Goku’s incapacitation, Vegeta and Piccolo stepped in to confront Android 20. Vegeta, having achieved Super Saiyan status, proved to be a formidable opponent, eventually overpowering Android 20. Piccolo also engaged in a strategic battle, attempting to exploit Android 20’s weaknesses. These battles showcased the Z Fighters’ resilience and determination to protect Earth.

The Downfall of Android 20

Betrayal by Androids 17 and 18

Android 20’s control over Androids 17 and 18 was tenuous at best. They quickly grew tired of his commands and rebelled against him. This culminated in Androids 17 and 18 turning against Dr. Gero, ultimately leading to his demise. This betrayal underscored the dangers of creating artificial beings with independent wills.

Destruction and Legacy

Androids 17 and 18 brutally killed Dr. Gero, ending his reign of terror. However, his legacy lived on through his creations, particularly Cell, who became an even greater threat than Android 20 himself. The events set in motion by Dr. Gero had far-reaching consequences, shaping the future of the Dragon Ball universe.

Impact on the Dragon Ball Universe

Introduction of New Threats

Android 20’s actions introduced a new level of threat to the Dragon Ball universe. The Androids and Cell proved to be formidable adversaries, pushing the Z Fighters to their limits. These villains forced the heroes to evolve and become stronger, leading to significant power-ups and transformations.

Technological Advancements in the Story

The Android saga brought technological advancements to the forefront of the Dragon Ball story. Dr. Gero’s creations highlighted the potential and dangers of artificial intelligence and cybernetic enhancements. This introduced a new dimension to the series, exploring themes of transhumanism and the ethical implications of advanced technology.

Ethical Considerations of Android Creation

The Morality of Artificial Life

The creation of Androids 16, 17, and 18 raises significant ethical questions about the morality of creating artificial life. Dr. Gero’s disregard for the well-being of his creations and his willingness to manipulate them for his own purposes highlights the dangers of unchecked scientific ambition. The Androids’ subsequent struggles with identity and purpose further underscore the ethical complexities of artificial life.

Consequences of Uncontrolled Technology

The Android saga serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of uncontrolled technology. Dr. Gero’s creations, intended to serve his will, ultimately turned against him and posed a threat to the entire world. This highlights the importance of considering the potential risks and unintended consequences of advanced technology.

Android 20’s Powers and Abilities: A Detailed Breakdown

Comparison of Android 20 with Other Androids

Key Takeaways

• Android 20, or Dr. Gero, was a brilliant but vengeful scientist who sought revenge against Goku.
• He transformed himself into an Android to gain power and immortality.
• Dr. Gero created Androids 16, 17, and 18, who ultimately betrayed him.
• His actions introduced new threats and technological advancements to the Dragon Ball universe.
• The Android saga raises ethical questions about the creation and control of artificial life.

Conclusion

Android 20 Dragon Ball remains a significant figure in the Dragon Ball saga, representing the dangers of unchecked ambition and the ethical complexities of advanced technology. His quest for revenge and world domination led to the creation of powerful adversaries and forced the Z Fighters to evolve. Understanding his motivations and actions provides valuable insight into the broader themes of the Dragon Ball universe. Explore other characters and story arcs to deepen your appreciation for this iconic series.

[See also: The History of the Red Ribbon Army in Dragon Ball]

[See also: The Complete Guide to Dragon Ball Z Androids]