The Universe Survival Arc in Dragon Ball Super officially kicks off with episode 77, titled “Do It, Zen-Oh! The Greatest of Universes Tournament!!” This marks the beginning of Goku and his friends’ desperate battle to save their universe from erasure.
The Prelude to Destruction: Setting the Stage
Before the thunderous clash of universes commenced, Dragon Ball Super meticulously laid the groundwork for the Universe Survival Arc. This preparatory phase introduced crucial elements: the seemingly innocuous existence of Zen-Oh, the all-powerful King of All, and the stark revelation of multiple universes beyond Universe 7, where Goku and his friends reside. This initial setup was vital for comprehending the sheer scale and stakes involved in the tournament.
The arc begins its true narrative build-up starting a few episodes earlier, particularly with the return of Future Trunks and the subsequent battle against Goku Black and Zamasu. This arc concluded with the destruction of Future Trunks’ timeline and, more importantly, the introduction of another Zen-Oh, a Zen-Oh from the future, bringing the total to two. This seemingly simple addition had profound consequences. Goku, driven by his insatiable desire for powerful opponents, convinces the two Zen-Oh to host a tournament featuring fighters from all the universes. Little did he realize the grave implications that would follow.
The Announcement and the Gathering Storm
Episode 77, then, acts as a pivotal moment of transition. It’s not just the announcement of the tournament; it’s the unveiling of the impending doom. The Grand Priest reveals that the weaker universes will be erased, a chilling prospect that throws Universe 7 into a state of panic. From this point onwards, the focus shifts to recruiting the strongest warriors for Team Universe 7, a task fraught with difficulty and drama. We see Goku’s persistence, Gohan’s renewed dedication, and the return of fan favorites like Androids 17 and 18, all driven by the looming threat of annihilation.
This episode is crucial for establishing the tone and direction of the arc. It’s where the fun and lightheartedness of earlier episodes give way to a sense of urgency and desperation. It sets the stage for the epic battles and emotional moments that define the Universe Survival Arc. It’s a point of no return.
The Tournament of Power: A Breakdown
The Tournament of Power (TOP) itself is the core of the Universe Survival Arc. Eight universes participate, each fielding a team of ten warriors. The rules are simple: eliminate all opponents from the arena. The last universe standing wins. However, the stakes are astronomically high. The losing universes will be erased from existence by the Zen-Ohs.
This premise allows for incredible character development, showcases a vast array of fighting styles, and introduces a host of fascinating new characters. From the stoic warrior Jiren of Universe 11 to the scheming Frost of Universe 6, each fighter brings something unique to the table. The TOP is not just a battle of strength; it’s a battle of strategy, teamwork, and willpower.
FAQ: Delving Deeper into the Universe Survival Arc
Here are some frequently asked questions designed to further illuminate the Universe Survival Arc and its nuances.
FAQ 1: What universes participate in the Tournament of Power?
The participating universes are Universe 2, Universe 3, Universe 4, Universe 6, Universe 7, Universe 9, Universe 10, and Universe 11. These are the universes with a mortal power level below a certain threshold, deemed worthy of participation by the Zen-Ohs.
FAQ 2: What is the prize for winning the Tournament of Power?
The winning universe is granted the Super Dragon Balls and can make any wish they desire. This prize serves as both a motivation and a source of potential corruption for the participating teams.
FAQ 3: How long does the Tournament of Power last in the anime?
The Tournament of Power spans over roughly 30 episodes, starting effectively with episode 105 and concluding with episode 131.
FAQ 4: Who are the members of Team Universe 7?
Team Universe 7 consists of Goku, Vegeta, Gohan, Piccolo, Krillin, Android 17, Android 18, Master Roshi, Tien Shinhan, and Frieza. This diverse team represents the strongest warriors Earth has to offer, with some surprising additions.
FAQ 5: Why is Frieza on Team Universe 7?
Frieza is recruited due to his immense power and Goku’s desperation to fill the team. Although a risky move, Frieza’s cunning and strength prove to be invaluable assets, despite his treacherous nature.
FAQ 6: Who is Jiren, and why is he so powerful?
Jiren is a member of the Pride Troopers from Universe 11 and is considered one of the strongest mortal beings in all the universes. His immense power stems from rigorous training and a tragic past that fuels his desire for justice.
FAQ 7: What is Ultra Instinct, and how does Goku achieve it?
Ultra Instinct is a state of being where the body moves instinctively, without the need for conscious thought. Goku achieves this state during the Tournament of Power through repeated exposure to extreme pressure and the need to surpass his limits. It’s considered the ultimate form of self-mastery.
FAQ 8: What happens to the universes that are erased?
The universes that are erased are obliterated from existence by the Zen-Ohs. Their inhabitants cease to exist as well. This creates a palpable sense of dread and underscores the gravity of the tournament.
FAQ 9: Is there a universe stronger than Universe 11?
It is heavily implied that there are universes with a higher mortal level score than Universe 11, but those universes are exempt from the Tournament of Power. They are considered strong enough to not require erasure. There is no clear confirmation which universe is the strongest, but hints suggest Universe 1 is extremely powerful.
FAQ 10: Does anyone die permanently during the Tournament of Power?
While many characters are eliminated from the tournament and seemingly erased from existence, most are eventually brought back through the use of the Super Dragon Balls. However, some background characters and individuals from the erased universes do remain permanently gone.
FAQ 11: What is the significance of Android 17’s wish with the Super Dragon Balls?
Android 17 wishes for all the erased universes to be restored, showcasing his growth as a character and his newfound appreciation for life. This act of selflessness redeems him and solidifies his place as a hero.
FAQ 12: How does the Universe Survival Arc end, and what are the lasting implications?
The Universe Survival Arc concludes with Universe 7 being victorious and Android 17 using the Super Dragon Balls to restore the erased universes. This resolution reinforces themes of hope, redemption, and the importance of fighting for what you believe in. It also sets the stage for future arcs by introducing new characters and exploring the vastness of the multiverse.
Conclusion: A Legacy Forged in Battle
The Universe Survival Arc, beginning with episode 77, stands as a testament to Dragon Ball Super‘s ability to tell epic, emotionally resonant stories. The tournament itself is a visually stunning spectacle filled with intense battles and memorable character moments. Beyond the spectacle, the arc delves into themes of mortality, teamwork, and the consequences of power. Its impact on the Dragon Ball narrative is undeniable, establishing new power levels, introducing compelling new characters, and forever changing the dynamics of the multiverse. Its legacy continues to resonate with fans, solidifying its place as a pivotal chapter in the Dragon Ball saga.