The Dragon Ball franchise, with its vast array of characters and intricate storylines, has always captivated audiences worldwide. Over the years, many characters have come and gone, but the introduction of Android 21 brought a fresh, intriguing dynamic to the series. With the recent confirmation that Android 21 r34 is now officially Dragon Ball canon, fans have been eagerly waiting for her next appearance. This article will delve into the significance of Android 21’s canon status, explore her background, and discuss why fans are asking, “Where is she?” and what the future might hold for this complex character.
Who Is Android 21?
Before delving into her canon status, it’s essential to understand who Android 21 is and why she has generated such interest in the Dragon Ball universe. Android 21 made her debut in the 2018 video game Dragon Ball FighterZ, developed by Arc System Works and published by Bandai Namco. She was not part of the original anime or manga but was created specifically for the game. Her character, however, was designed by none other than Akira Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball, which added an extra layer of authenticity to her presence.
Android 21 r34 is a highly intelligent scientist, often compared to Dr. Gero in terms of intellect, as she is revealed to have been involved in some of the same experiments that created other iconic Androids like Android 17 and 18. What makes her particularly unique is her dual nature—she has a human side and a Majin side, much like Majin Buu. This duality is reflected in her appearance, where she can transform into a Majin-like figure with pink skin, a tail, and an insatiable appetite for power. The complexity of her character, coupled with her intriguing backstory, made her an instant hit among fans.
Android 21’s Journey to Becoming Canon
The term “canon” in the Dragon Ball universe refers to characters, events, and storylines that are officially recognized as part of the original timeline and lore. For years, Android 21 was seen as a non-canon character, existing solely within the universe of Dragon Ball FighterZ. While fans enjoyed her storyline in the game, there was always a desire to see her officially integrated into the main Dragon Ball storyline.
The first hints that Android 21 could become canon came from Akira Toriyama himself. When designing her character, Toriyama revealed that he had put significant thought into her backstory and connections to the existing Dragon Ball universe. Her design and character traits were consistent with other canon characters, which fueled speculation among fans.
In 2023, those speculations were finally put to rest when Android 21 was officially confirmed as part of the Dragon Ball canon. This revelation came as part of the promotional material for the upcoming Dragon Ball Super movie, where her character was subtly referenced. Though her role in the movie is still unclear, the confirmation that she is now canon has sparked a wave of excitement and anticipation among fans.
Why Android 21 Matters to the Dragon Ball Universe
Android 21’s addition to the Dragon Ball canon is significant for several reasons. First, her character adds depth to the existing lore surrounding the Androids. The Android saga, particularly in Dragon Ball Z, is one of the most iconic story arcs in the franchise. Androids like 17, 18, and Cell have left a lasting impact on the series, and Android 21’s connection to them brings new layers of intrigue to their stories.
Moreover, Android 21’s dual nature—a combination of human and Majin DNA—opens up new possibilities for storytelling. Her Majin form draws parallels to Majin Buu, one of the most powerful villains in Dragon Ball Z. However, unlike Buu, Android 21 is a highly intelligent scientist, which makes her a more strategic and calculating character. Her desire for power and knowledge sets her apart from other villains, and her internal struggle between her human and Majin sides adds emotional complexity to her character.
In terms of power, Android 21 is formidable. In Dragon Ball FighterZ, she displayed the ability to absorb the powers of other fighters, much like Majin Buu. This ability, combined with her scientific genius, makes her one of the most dangerous characters in the Dragon Ball universe. If Android 21 were to appear in the main storyline, she could pose a significant threat to Goku and the other Z Fighters.
Where Is Android 21 Now?
Despite the confirmation that Android 21 is now canon, her absence from the recent Dragon Ball Super manga and anime has left fans puzzled. The question on everyone’s mind is, “Where is she?”
One possible explanation is that the creators of Dragon Ball are waiting for the right moment to introduce her into the main storyline. Dragon Ball has a long history of introducing new characters at pivotal moments in the story, and Android 21’s character arc may require a specific context for her to make her debut. Given her ties to both the Androids and Majin Buu, she could play a significant role in a future story arc that explores the origins of the Androids or delves deeper into the Majin race.
Another possibility is that Android 21 will be introduced in the upcoming Dragon Ball Super movie. The promotional material for the movie has been intentionally vague, but there have been subtle hints that Android 21 could play a role. If this is the case, her appearance in the movie could serve as a springboard for her to enter the main storyline in the manga and anime.
It’s also worth considering that Android 21’s storyline may require a significant build-up. Given her complex backstory and her connections to multiple characters and events in the Dragon Ball universe, the creators may be taking their time to ensure that her introduction is meaningful and impactful. This approach would align with how Dragon Ball has handled other major characters, such as Beerus and Jiren, whose introductions were carefully crafted to maximize their impact on the story.
The Future of Android 21 in Dragon Ball
As fans eagerly await Android 21’s official debut in the main storyline, there are several intriguing possibilities for her character’s future in the Dragon Ball universe.
One potential storyline could explore her connection to the other Androids, particularly Android 17 and 18. In Dragon Ball FighterZ, it was hinted that Android 21 had a maternal connection to Android 16, which could be expanded upon in the main storyline. Additionally, her scientific knowledge could make her a valuable ally or a dangerous enemy, depending on her motivations.
Another possibility is that Android 21 could become a central figure in a new story arc involving the Majin race. Her Majin form and her connection to Majin Buu could lead to the exploration of the origins and nature of the Majin race, which has remained largely unexplored in the Dragon Ball universe. This storyline could also delve into the idea of duality and internal conflict, as Android 21 grapples with her human and Majin sides.
There is also the possibility that Android 21 could take on a more anti-heroic role, similar to Vegeta. Her internal struggle between her desire for power and her human emotions could make her a complex and morally ambiguous character. She could potentially align with the Z Fighters to combat a greater threat, while still pursuing her own goals.
Conclusion
Android 21’s confirmation as part of the Dragon Ball canon has opened up a world of possibilities for the future of the franchise. Her unique combination of scientific genius, Android abilities, and Majin powers makes her one of the most intriguing characters in the Dragon Ball universe. While fans are eagerly asking, “Where is she?” it’s clear that the creators of Dragon Ball are taking their time to craft a meaningful and impactful introduction for her character.
Whether she appears in the upcoming Dragon Ball Super movie or in a future story arc, Android 21 is poised to leave a lasting impact on the series. Her complex backstory, her ties to both the Androids and Majin Buu, and her formidable powers make her a character to watch as the Dragon Ball universe continues to evolve. As fans continue to speculate about her future, one thing is certain: Android 21 is here to stay, and her story is just beginning.
