Goku’s triumphant display of Super Saiyan 2 (SSJ2), a momentous leap in power and a visually stunning transformation, first occurred in Dragon Ball Z episode 122, titled “Vegeta’s Anger Awakens!!” This episode marks a pivotal point in the Cell Games Saga, showcasing the results of Goku’s rigorous training in the Hyperbolic Time Chamber and signaling a significant shift in the power dynamics against the seemingly invincible Cell.
The Road to Super Saiyan 2: A Journey of Power
Goku’s journey to SSJ2 wasn’t a spontaneous event. It was the culmination of intense training, driven by the terrifying threat posed by Cell. Before episode 122, Goku and Gohan spent a year training within the Hyperbolic Time Chamber, a dimension where one day equates to one year on Earth. Their goal was to surpass the original Super Saiyan form and unlock its hidden potential. This section will explore the steps taken, and the hints dropped before the actual episode.
The Hyperbolic Time Chamber Training
Inside the Time Chamber, Goku focused on mastering the regular Super Saiyan form. He realized its weaknesses – its reliance on heightened emotions and its potential to drain stamina over long periods. He strived for a more natural, stable, and sustainable Super Saiyan state. This formed the foundation for his subsequent leap to SSJ2.
Hints and Foreshadowing
While episode 122 officially marks the first on-screen transformation, earlier episodes subtly hinted at Goku’s progress. His enhanced Ki control and the growing disparity between his power level and Vegeta’s (who had also trained in the Time Chamber) suggested he possessed a hidden edge. Even Cell noticed a difference, admitting Goku’s power was greater than he expected.
Episode 122: Vegeta’s Anger Awakens!! – The Moment of Truth
This episode is more than just a transformation sequence. It’s a powerful display of Vegeta’s frustration, his jealousy towards Goku’s continued progression, and the burgeoning hope that the Saiyans collectively hold against Cell.
The Scenario Leading Up to the Transformation
After Goku’s first battle against Cell, he admits defeat, shocking everyone. He then sends Gohan to fight Cell, believing in Gohan’s hidden potential. Before Gohan’s fight however, Vegeta interferes to attempt to save his son Trunks who was just defeated by Cell, which is where the episode gets its namesake, by awakening Vegeta’s anger.
Goku Reveals Super Saiyan 2
Goku showcases his full power, revealing he was hiding the Super Saiyan 2 Transformation as he believes that Gohan holds the key to defeating cell. He demonstrates that he could have defeated Cell, but Gohan is the key. His aura is brighter, his hair is spikier and more defined, and electrical sparks crackle around him – all hallmarks of the Super Saiyan 2 form.
Significance of the Transformation
This transformation held immense significance. It showed the audience (and Cell) that the Saiyans were still evolving, capable of surpassing their limits. It fueled Gohan’s own potential and set the stage for the epic climax of the Cell Games Saga. It redefined the benchmark for Saiyan power, and set up Goku’s and Gohan’s power for the Cell Games.
FAQs: Decoding the Super Saiyan 2 Transformation
Here are some frequently asked questions about Goku’s Super Saiyan 2 transformation, providing further context and details:
FAQ 1: Was Goku stronger than Cell as a Super Saiyan 2 in episode 122?
While Goku showcased the Super Saiyan 2 form, it’s debatable whether he was definitively stronger than Cell at that exact moment. Goku admits that Gohan holds the key to defeating Cell, even hinting that Gohan already has the potential. While his transformation surprised Cell, he had a strategy for Gohan.
FAQ 2: Did Vegeta ever achieve Super Saiyan 2 before Goku?
No, Vegeta did not achieve Super Saiyan 2 before Goku in the timeline of Dragon Ball Z. He unlocked the form later, after the Cell Games Saga, during his own training.
FAQ 3: How does Super Saiyan 2 differ visually from Super Saiyan?
The most notable visual differences are the spikier hair with more pronounced definition, a brighter, more intense aura, and the presence of electrical sparks surrounding the Saiyan. The overall aesthetic is more aggressive and powerful.
FAQ 4: What are the key power differences between Super Saiyan and Super Saiyan 2?
Super Saiyan 2 represents a significant increase in strength, speed, and energy output compared to Super Saiyan. It allows for more devastating attacks and greater resilience. The user’s Ki control is also noticeably improved.
FAQ 5: Was Goku aware of Gohan’s hidden potential before transforming into Super Saiyan 2?
Yes, Goku sensed Gohan’s latent power long before episode 122. He witnessed glimpses of it during Gohan’s rage outbursts, and he believed that unlocking this potential was crucial to defeating Cell. That’s the reason that Goku felt comfortable admitting defeat and handing it over to Gohan.
FAQ 6: How long did Goku train in the Hyperbolic Time Chamber to achieve Super Saiyan 2 potential?
Goku spent one year (equivalent to one day on Earth) inside the Hyperbolic Time Chamber with Gohan, specifically focusing on mastering the Super Saiyan form and pushing its boundaries to unlock the Super Saiyan 2 potential.
FAQ 7: Why didn’t Goku defeat Cell himself if he had Super Saiyan 2?
As mentioned before, Goku believed that Gohan possessed the inherent potential to surpass both him and Cell. He aimed to awaken this potential by pushing Gohan to his limits. He believed that Gohan could defeat Cell, and he was correct, as Gohan eventually defeats cell.
FAQ 8: How does the Super Saiyan 2 transformation affect Goku’s personality?
While Goku’s core personality remains largely the same, the Super Saiyan 2 form does seem to amplify his Saiyan instincts, making him slightly more aggressive and battle-hungry. However, his sense of justice and compassion remains intact.
FAQ 9: Is Super Saiyan 2 the peak of Goku’s power in the Cell Games Saga?
No, Super Saiyan 2 was a crucial stepping stone, but Gohan ultimately surpassed Goku’s power level in that saga when he achieved Super Saiyan 2 and pushed even further.
FAQ 10: How does the Super Saiyan 2 form compare to Super Saiyan God and Super Saiyan Blue?
Super Saiyan God and Super Saiyan Blue are transformations that belong to an entirely different power scale, existing far beyond Super Saiyan 2. They involve the utilization of God Ki and are drastically more powerful.
FAQ 11: Can any Saiyan achieve Super Saiyan 2 through training and dedication?
In theory, yes. The Dragon Ball universe suggests that any Saiyan with sufficient potential and a strong will can achieve Super Saiyan 2 through rigorous training and pushing their limits. However, achieving and maintaining this form requires immense dedication and power.
FAQ 12: What’s the legacy of Goku’s Super Saiyan 2 transformation in the Dragon Ball franchise?
Goku’s Super Saiyan 2 transformation is a landmark moment in the Dragon Ball franchise, showcasing his relentless pursuit of power and inspiring other Saiyans to push their own boundaries. It represents a significant turning point in the power scale and a cornerstone of Saiyan lore. It’s a form that remains iconic and continues to be celebrated by fans worldwide.