Why Goku Isn’t Smahsing His Way into Super Smash Bros.
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Goku, the iconic Saiyan from the Dragon Ball franchise, is a character often requested, even demanded, for inclusion in Super Smash Bros. However, despite his global popularity and undeniable appeal, he remains absent from the roster. The primary reason lies in Nintendo’s original vision for the game. Masahiro Sakurai, the creator of Super Smash Bros., explicitly stated that the series was conceived as a celebration of video game characters and their origins. Goku, while a beloved character originating from a manga and anime, doesn’t fit this criterion. He simply doesn’t hail from a video game first.
The Origins Matter: A Core Design Principle
Video Games First, All Else Second
This “video games first” philosophy has been a cornerstone of Super Smash Bros. since its inception. Sakurai’s intent was to create a crossover fighting game showcasing the rich history and diverse characters found within the video game world. The focus has always been on representing the icons and legacies born from interactive entertainment.
The Manga/Anime Exception: Rare and Justified
While the rule has held firm, one might argue that characters from anime or manga could be included. However, the criterion to be included in the game is that the character must have originated as a video game character. Although Dragon Ball has seen numerous video game adaptations, Goku’s origins are in manga, specifically Akira Toriyama’s original series, and then anime.
Representation Through Dragon Quest
The Dragon Ball influence isn’t completely absent. The inclusion of Hero from Dragon Quest, also designed by Akira Toriyama, offers a nod to Toriyama’s artistic style, while adhering to the core principle. Hero represents a beloved video game franchise with a legacy reaching back decades, demonstrating the balance between honoring a popular artist and maintaining the video game character focus.
Technicalities and Considerations
The Licensing Labyrinth
Acquiring the rights to include a character like Goku is a monumental task. It involves navigating complex legal agreements, negotiating with multiple rights holders, and securing permissions from various companies. While not an insurmountable hurdle, the licensing process for a character outside the realm of video games adds significant complications and costs. The licensing fees, not to mention the legal work, would be high, as well as negotiating royalties.
Gameplay and Character Design Challenges
Integrating Goku into Super Smash Bros. presents a unique set of gameplay challenges. His immense power, diverse range of abilities, and iconic moves would require careful consideration to ensure balance and fairness within the game’s existing mechanics. Designing a moveset that accurately reflects Goku’s fighting style while remaining true to the Super Smash Bros. formula is a delicate balancing act.
Fan Dreams vs. Reality
The fervor surrounding Goku’s potential inclusion stems from his immense popularity and widespread recognition. He’s a character beloved by millions, and the prospect of him battling alongside Nintendo’s iconic characters is undeniably exciting. However, the reality of game development involves adhering to specific design principles, navigating legal complexities, and making decisions that align with the overall vision for the project. Although many fans would love to see Goku in Super Smash Bros, his inclusion would clash with the core design principles and would open the floodgates for other manga and anime characters to be included. This change would make the game lose its initial charm of showcasing video game characters.
FAQs: Goku and Super Smash Bros.
1. Is there any chance Goku could be added in a future Super Smash Bros. game?
While never say never, given the stated design philosophy, it’s highly unlikely. Sakurai has been very vocal about his intentions for the game. However, with Sakurai potentially retiring, the game may change drastically in the future.
2. What about other anime or manga characters? Are they all excluded?
Generally, yes. The key criterion is origin. If a character originated in a video game and later appeared in anime/manga, they have a chance.
3. How does the inclusion of characters like Joker from Persona 5 fit into this?
Joker originates from the Persona video game series, making him eligible under Sakurai’s stated criteria. Persona 5 is a very popular video game.
4. What about characters from games based on movies, like Star Wars?
Characters based on movies or other forms of media still must come from a video game. This includes Star Wars, Marvel, and other franchises. The character needs to have a history in the video game world.
5. Could modders add Goku to the game?
Yes, through unofficial modifications, it’s possible to add custom characters like Goku. However, these mods are not endorsed by Nintendo and may violate the game’s terms of service. Modders have been known to add all sorts of characters to the game.
6. If not as a fighter, could Goku be an Assist Trophy or Spirit?
An Assist Trophy or Spirit is more plausible than a full fighter, as they have lower hurdles to clear. However, it still doesn’t seem likely. But the Mii Fighter costumes are the most likely.
7. Has Sakurai ever commented directly on Goku’s exclusion?
While Sakurai hasn’t specifically addressed Goku’s absence in great detail, his statements on the game’s philosophy have been clear.
8. Could a Dragon Ball character originating in a game get in?
Potentially, but no character that originated from a Dragon Ball game has the same popularity as Goku. Characters like Android 16 have origins that started out in the video games, but they aren’t popular enough to warrant inclusion.
9. What are some other highly requested characters that haven’t made it in?
Waluigi, Geno, and Isaac are frequently requested characters from video game franchises. There is no shortage of highly requested characters.
10. How does the game’s rating affect character choices?
Sakurai wanted to lower the rating of the game, and thus Snake was removed.
11. What are some examples of unexpected characters that did make it into Smash?
Mr. Game & Watch, R.O.B., and Piranha Plant are examples of characters that surprised players with their inclusion. Even Steve from Minecraft was a surprise.
12. Why do people keep asking for Goku if he doesn’t fit the criteria?
Goku’s immense popularity transcends media boundaries. Fans simply want to see their favorite character represented in the game.
13. What are the major hurdles in adding a 3rd party character to Smash?
Licensing, design challenges, and balancing gameplay are all significant hurdles. The game also needs to be enjoyable for the player.
14. Are there any fan petitions to get Goku in Smash?
Yes, numerous fan petitions circulate online, demonstrating the widespread desire for Goku’s inclusion. However, these petitions have not influenced Nintendo’s decisions.
15. Who decides which characters get into Super Smash Bros.?
Ultimately, Masahiro Sakurai and his development team make the final decisions, taking into account various factors. Now that Sakurai may have retired, the game is in new hands.
Super Smash Bros. remains a testament to the rich history of video games. While the absence of Goku may disappoint some, the game’s commitment to its core principles is what makes it such a unique and beloved franchise. The game is a labor of love that strives to showcase the legends and legacies born from video game history. The Games Learning Society explores the many facets of gaming and its impact on society. You can learn more at GamesLearningSociety.org.