DBGT Android 17: Unveiling the Complexities of the Super 17 Saga

The Dragon Ball GT (DBGT) series, while often debated among fans, introduced several intriguing concepts and characters. Among these, the Super 17 saga stands out, primarily due to its complex narrative and the formidable antagonist at its core: DBGT Android 17. This article delves into the intricacies of this particular arc, exploring the origins, motivations, and impact of DBGT Android 17 on the Dragon Ball universe.

The Genesis of Android 17

To understand DBGT Android 17, it’s crucial to revisit the history of Android 17 himself. Originally a human named Lapis, he, along with his twin sister Lazuli (Android 18), were kidnapped and transformed into cyborgs by Dr. Gero, also known as Android 20. Dr. Gero’s primary objective was to exact revenge on Goku for dismantling the Red Ribbon Army. However, Android 17 and 18 ultimately rebelled against Dr. Gero, killing him and embarking on their own path.

In Dragon Ball Z, Android 17 was a powerful adversary, capable of matching Super Saiyan-level fighters. Following the Cell Games, he lived a relatively peaceful life, working as a park ranger and avoiding conflict. This makes his transformation into Super 17 in DBGT all the more jarring and raises questions about the circumstances that led to his corruption.

Dr. Myuu and the Hell Fighter 17 Project

The Super 17 saga begins with the machinations of Dr. Myuu, a brilliant but malevolent scientist who sought to create the ultimate artificial lifeform. Trapped in Hell, Dr. Myuu collaborated with Dr. Gero, who was also residing there after his demise. Together, they devised a plan to create a new version of Android 17, known as Hell Fighter 17. This new Android 17 was programmed to merge with the original Android 17 on Earth, resulting in the birth of Super 17.

Hell Fighter 17 possesses the ability to open a portal between Hell and Earth, allowing numerous villains to escape and wreak havoc. This creates a chaotic situation that the Z Fighters must confront, setting the stage for the emergence of DBGT Android 17.

The Merging of Two Androids: The Birth of Super 17

The merging process between the original Android 17 and Hell Fighter 17 is a pivotal moment in the saga. Hell Fighter 17 travels to Earth and confronts the original Android 17. Through Dr. Myuu’s remote control, the two Androids are forced to merge, creating the immensely powerful Super 17. This transformation results in a significant change in Android 17’s appearance and personality. Super 17 is larger, more menacing, and utterly devoid of the original Android 17’s sense of morality or self-preservation.

The creation of DBGT Android 17 is not a natural evolution, but rather a forced and unnatural fusion, driven by the twisted ambitions of Dr. Myuu and Dr. Gero. This lack of autonomy and the influence of his creators contribute to Super 17’s ruthless and destructive behavior. [See also: Android 18’s Role in Dragon Ball]

Super 17’s Power and Abilities

DBGT Android 17, in his Super 17 form, boasts incredible power, far surpassing that of his previous incarnation. He possesses immense strength, speed, and energy projection capabilities. However, his most notable ability is his energy absorption. Super 17 can absorb any energy-based attack, making him nearly invulnerable to conventional Ki blasts. This ability forces the Z Fighters to rely on physical attacks, which proves to be a significant challenge.

Super 17’s power is so great that he can easily defeat Super Saiyan Goku, Vegeta, Gohan, Goten, and Trunks. Even combined attacks from multiple Z Fighters prove ineffective due to his energy absorption ability. This showcases the immense threat that DBGT Android 17 poses to the Earth and the Dragon Ball universe.

The Weakness of Super 17

Despite his overwhelming power, Super 17 possesses a crucial weakness. While absorbing energy, he becomes momentarily vulnerable to physical attacks. This weakness is exploited by Android 18, who, fueled by her love for her brother and her determination to stop Super 17, attacks him relentlessly during his energy absorption phases.

Android 18’s attacks create an opening for Goku, who, after struggling to find a way to damage Super 17, realizes the Android’s vulnerability. Goku uses his Dragon Fist technique, focusing his energy into a single, devastating blow that pierces through Super 17’s defenses and destroys him. This victory is hard-earned and highlights the importance of teamwork and exploiting an opponent’s weaknesses.

The Controversy Surrounding Super 17

The Super 17 saga is one of the most criticized arcs in Dragon Ball GT. Many fans find the storyline contrived and inconsistent with the established lore of the Dragon Ball universe. The idea of Dr. Gero and Dr. Myuu collaborating in Hell seems far-fetched, and the forced merging of Android 17 feels like a disservice to the character’s development in Dragon Ball Z.

Furthermore, the power scaling in the Super 17 saga is often questioned. The fact that Super 17 can so easily defeat Super Saiyan Goku and other powerful Z Fighters raises concerns about the consistency of power levels within the Dragon Ball universe. Some fans argue that Super 17’s power is exaggerated for the sake of creating a powerful antagonist, without proper justification within the narrative. [See also: Power Scaling Issues in Dragon Ball GT]

The Impact on Android 17’s Character

The Super 17 saga significantly impacts the perception of Android 17’s character. While he was initially portrayed as a rebellious and somewhat unpredictable cyborg in Dragon Ball Z, he eventually found peace and a purpose in protecting nature. His transformation into Super 17 completely erases this development, turning him into a mindless killing machine controlled by Dr. Myuu and Dr. Gero.

This drastic change in character is a major point of contention for many fans. They argue that it undermines the character’s growth and development in Dragon Ball Z and portrays him in a negative light. The Super 17 saga effectively undoes the redemption arc that Android 17 experienced, leaving a sour taste in the mouths of many viewers.

Alternative Interpretations of the Super 17 Saga

Despite the criticisms, some fans offer alternative interpretations of the Super 17 saga. They argue that the saga explores the themes of control, manipulation, and the dangers of unchecked scientific ambition. Super 17 can be seen as a symbol of the consequences of Dr. Myuu and Dr. Gero’s obsession with creating artificial lifeforms, highlighting the ethical implications of their actions.

Furthermore, the saga can be interpreted as a commentary on the nature of power and the importance of self-determination. Super 17’s lack of autonomy and his reliance on his creators ultimately lead to his downfall. This suggests that true power comes from within and that those who are controlled by others are ultimately vulnerable.

The Legacy of DBGT Android 17

Regardless of one’s opinion on the Super 17 saga, DBGT Android 17 remains a memorable character in the Dragon Ball franchise. His unique design, immense power, and controversial storyline have cemented his place in Dragon Ball history. While the saga may not be universally loved, it has sparked countless discussions and debates among fans, ensuring that DBGT Android 17 will continue to be a topic of conversation for years to come.

In conclusion, the Super 17 saga and the character of DBGT Android 17 represent a complex and often debated chapter in the Dragon Ball universe. While the storyline may have its flaws and inconsistencies, it also raises interesting questions about control, manipulation, and the nature of power. Whether you love it or hate it, the Super 17 saga is undoubtedly a significant part of Dragon Ball GT and the broader Dragon Ball franchise.