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The Dragon Ball series is known for characters like Goku, Vegeta, and Gohan who have inspired an entire generation of viewers. Most people would agree that Goku and Vegeta are without a doubt two of the most essential characters in the best-known shonen anime and manga series of all time. In light of this, there are some who consider Bulma to be one of the most important characters.
Bulma has been a supporting character who has received less attention than other others. She isn't known for taking on some of the series' toughest characters. However, there were a few key narrative moments involving Bulma that would have prevented the series from progressing as it did.
Let's take a look at why Bulma is crucial in the anime series and how much she influenced the plot.
Bulma’s importance in the Dragon Ball series explored
Fans are well aware of the time Goku decided to collect all the Dragon Balls that would grant him any wish from Shenron. If we recollect, Bulma was the one who created the Dragon Radar. This was a device that allowed her to track all the balls which Goku was in search of. Bulma’s understanding of technology was incredible. She realized that the ball emitted a faint electromagnetic pulse. A technological expert, she crafted the device in a manner that would pick up this pulse, and one could track it by checking the direction displayed on the device.
Keeping in mind the significance of the dragon balls, Bulma's scientific mind was instrumental in advancing the plot forward.
If Goku hadn’t met Bulma, who was searching for these Dragon Balls at that time, it is unlikely that the former would have met Master Roshi. This old man who is beloved by the entire fanbase was one of Goku’s first-ever martial arts teachers.
Master Roshi laid the foundations of martial arts and important combat techniques for Goku. He was also responsible for Goku’s Kamehameha, which is one of the most iconic techniques that defined the series. If Goku hadn’t met Bulma, chances are that Goku might not have learned the techniques at that stage of his life.
Another incredibly important invention that served as a major plot point was the time machine. Bulma invented the time machine that allowed Trunks to travel to the past and give Goku his medicine for the contagious disease he had. If not for that machine, a major section of the story might not have been explored.
Final Thoughts
There is no doubt that characters like Goku, Vegeta, and Gohan are crucial to Dragon Ball. While the story revolves around these characters, there were plenty of moments that required an element to progress the plot. This crucial role was played by none other than Bulma. She acted as a connecting link that aided in the plot's development.
Ultimately, this is a shonen anime and manga series, and action is a major part of the premise. This is the reason why someone like Bulma didn’t receive as much screen time since she wasn’t a person who specialized in combat.
However, her importance as a supporting character in the series cannot be overstated. Without the invention of certain devices, the very existence of certain story arcs is questionable. This is why we believe Bulma is a very important character in the series.
Stay tuned for more Dragon Ball anime and manga news as 2023 progresses
