Frieza’s legacy as the ultimate tyrant in Dragon Ball is undeniable, and he has intrigued fans across generations due to his cunning and ruthless personality as he strives for greater power. As one of the series’ longest-standing antagonists, Frieza’s presence continues to carry significant weight, and the malevolent wishes to take down Goku once and for all. As a villain, Frieza persists no matter how many times he fails, making him one of the most memorable characters who is always a step ahead compared to other enemies the Z-Fighters have faced.
In fact, Akira Toriyama himself has confirmed Frieza’s significance in the series. In Toriyama’s own words from a comment published on V-Jump in 2015, before the Resurrection of 'F' movie was released, "Frieza is the most vicious enemy, who is most worth defeating.” This statement reveals that Frieza isn’t only powerful, but he was created to be an unforgettable character along Goku’s path and stands as the greatest villain ever created in Dragon Ball. However, Toriyama also explained exactly why he was able to make Frieza so compelling as a villain.
The Evil Emperor Always Comes Back Stronger Than Ever
When Goku and Vegeta Achieve New, Powerful Forms, Frieza Follows Suit Not Long After
Frieza’s relentless ambition to become the most powerful in the universe sets him apart from other villains in the series. His single-minded purpose is not driven by a sole need or desire for destruction, but rather a wish to rule as a universal emperor. Unlike other villains, Frieza continuously returns to the series more powerful than ever, proving to Goku and Vegeta that he is not a foe who can be underestimated.
As the most adaptable villain in Dragon Ball, Frieza remains a threat whose shadow looms over the Z-Fighters. His mind is as sharp as he is powerful, and it shows through his decision to temporarily join forces with Goku during the universal Tournament of Power. It was clear Goku was in a tight spot, and Frieza used it to his advantage, creating a deal that benefits him in the long run. He effectively makes a deal to serve his purposes, and his ascent to Black Frieza proves he has been growing his power continuously alongside Goku and Vegeta.
Akira Toriyama's Familiarity With Frieza Created An Unforgettable Antagonist
Frieza’s Ambitions Evolve Accordingly As He Gains More Power
Akira Toriyama also stated, “I know his personality very well, so it was easy to write.” This understanding shines through the series as Frieza’s character acts in accordance with his own desires. Frieza's original inspiration were the speculators who tried to capitalize on the Japanese financial crisis in the 1990s, known as "the lost decade", which inspired many great anime series. Toriyama thus saw the character as very "real", and that's why Frieza continues to evolve throughout the series. Frieza wants to rule the universe, but the humiliation suffered at the hands of Goku and Vegeta forced him to grow beyond his initial ambition and attitude, as seen in his latest return.
Toriyama’s familiarity with Frieza ensured that his every return and appearance felt consistent with his character. The seamless continuity in Frieza’s character creates a compelling antagonist worthy of Goku and the Z-Fighter’s attention. While aspects of Dragon Ball tend to shift, Toriyama’s depiction of Frieza is well-crafted and constant, making him one of the most rounded characters in the series and the greatest villain.
From the creative mind of Akira Toriyama, Dragon Ball is a mega multimedia franchise that spans back to the 1980s. Dragon Ball expanded quickly, starting as a serialized manga for Weekly Shonen Jump in Japan. It made its way overseas via manga and an anime adaptation that is enjoyed worldwide. Dragon Ball was the initial starting animated series that followed the adventures of the young Son Goku as he sought after the Dragon Balls. These mystical orbs would grant the wish of any who gathered them together. Then, the series would branch off into the immensely popular Dragon Ball Z, which followed Goku as an adult and featured high-intensity battles and Goku's never-ending search to be the strongest. The series has also enjoyed several popular video game adaptations and continues to release several new animated series and theatrical films up to the recent popular Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero.
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