A lot of fans just kind of forget about Krillin when talking about the strongest characters in Dragon Ball Z. But honestly, he’s way more than a sidekick.
Krillin is one of the strongest humans in the series and has shown courage and skill that few can match. His unique techniques, especially the Destructo Disc, have been crucial in battles where others just rely on raw power.
Krillin’s character adds something special to the Dragon Ball universe. He manages to balance a steady family life and a regular job, which is a pretty big contrast to the constant fighting Goku and Vegeta go through.
His loyalty and humanity make him an important figure who, honestly, deserves a bit more respect from both fans and characters.
Key Takeways
- Krillin is one of the strongest human fighters in the Dragon Ball franchise.
- His skills and bravery have shaped key moments in Dragon Ball Z.
- Krillin’s personal life and relationships add important depth to the anime.
Krillin’s Role and Legacy in the Dragon Ball Universe
Krillin stands out for his courage, persistence, and just plain humanity. His journey proves that an ordinary human can still matter in a world packed with Saiyans and aliens.
You see how Krillin’s foundation as a fighter, his growth through the series, and his human limits all shape his legacy.
Foundations as an Original Z Fighter
Krillin starts out as one of Goku’s best friends and fellow students under Master Roshi. He’s part of the original crew of Earth defenders—the Z Fighters.
Even though he doesn’t have Saiyan blood, Krillin trains hard to keep up with way stronger opponents.
His early fights in Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z show him going up against dangerous enemies like the Saiyans and androids. Krillin often faces foes who are way out of his league, but he still steps up to protect Earth.
This kind of courage earns him respect, even if he never ends up the strongest guy around.
Growth Across Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z, and Dragon Ball Super
Krillin’s character really grows over time. In Dragon Ball Z, he survives some brutal battles that others don’t.
He lasts through the Saiyan invasion and the Namek saga, even taking out several Saibamen. That’s not nothing.
In Dragon Ball Super, Krillin keeps training and fighting with Goku and the others. He adapts to new threats, including those wild tournaments between universes.
His experience and tactical mind help the team, even when he’s not the one throwing the biggest punches.
Human Limitations Versus Saiyan Abilities
It’s important to remember: Krillin is a full-blooded human in a universe packed with Saiyans and other super-powered beings. Saiyans like Goku and Vegeta can transform and boost their power to insane levels.
Humans like Krillin can’t do that, no matter how hard they try.
Still, Krillin pushes himself to the limit, relying on skill, speed, and clever moves like the Destructo Disc. He can’t transform, and that’s a huge hurdle.
But he keeps fighting anyway, which makes his achievements even more impressive.
Krillin is proof that human willpower can matter, even in a world where Saiyans and Namekians usually steal the show.
Key Moments Where Krillin Proved His Worth
Krillin shows his value with gutsy fights, smart moves in tough battles, and loyalty when things get rough. He’s more than just backup—he’s a real friend and fighter.
Valor in Battles Against Androids and Saiyans
When androids 17 and 18 showed up, Krillin faced them despite knowing he was outmatched. He fought alongside Gohan and Vegeta, refusing to just run away.
His courage in these battles shows how far he’s willing to go to protect Earth.
He helped out during Cell’s attacks, too. Krillin’s quick thinking bought time for the stronger fighters.
He never backed down, even when the odds looked terrible.
Pivotal Actions on Namek and Against Frieza
On Namek, Krillin took big risks to help his friends. He traveled far from Earth and faced some truly deadly enemies.
His determination was key in the search for the Dragon Balls, trying to bring back their fallen allies.
Krillin’s most famous move was against Frieza. At one point, he actually managed to cut off Frieza’s tail—a bigger injury than anyone else managed at that time.
That took guts and skill, no question.
Courageous Standouts in the Buu Saga
During the Buu Saga, Krillin kept training and fighting to protect his family and the planet. He didn’t just give up, even when things got wild.
His courage helped hold the group together.
Krillin’s actions gave Gohan and others the time they needed to get ready for the final battles. His loyalty really shines through here.
Relationships That Showcase Krillin’s Character
Krillin’s connections show off his loyalty, growth, and steady presence in Dragon Ball. His friendships, marriage, and mentorships say a lot about who he is.
Bond with Goku and Son Goku’s Respect
Krillin’s friendship with Goku is legendary. From childhood training to all those battles, he’s always been by Goku’s side.
Goku really respects him—not just as a fighter, but as a friend he can trust.
Even Goku’s son Goten and his fusion form Gotenks recognize Krillin’s importance to the group. He’s the kind of guy who reassures everyone just by being there.
Krillin and Goku’s bond is built on trust and a long history of shared battles, even if Krillin can’t match Goku’s strength.
Impact on and Partnership with Android 18
Krillin’s relationship with Android 18 brings out a softer, more loyal side. Their marriage is honestly one of the healthier relationships in the Dragon Ball world.
You can see how much Krillin cares for her, and it only grows stronger over time.
They have a daughter together and raise her with a lot of love and attention. Krillin’s dedication as a dad is pretty clear.
Their teamwork also helps out the whole group, which ends up shaping the story in subtle but important ways.
Mentorship from Master Roshi
Master Roshi played a big role in shaping Krillin’s early life and fighting skills. Roshi’s tough training pushed Krillin to develop discipline and courage.
This mentorship gave Krillin a strong moral foundation that sticks with him.
Even as new, powerful fighters show up, Krillin’s connection to Roshi stays important. It influences how he helps younger fighters and keeps him grounded.
Enduring Popularity and Influence Beyond Battles
Krillin’s importance in Dragon Ball isn’t just about his fights. His role in the story and his influence on the franchise are pretty clear.
You see him pop up in the manga and in all sorts of spin-offs.
Legacy in the Dragon Ball Franchise and Manga
In the original manga by Akira Toriyama, Krillin is one of the main human heroes. He starts out strong and just keeps getting wiser and more skilled.
Toriyama often uses Krillin as the benchmark for human strength up against Saiyans and aliens.
Krillin keeps showing up in Dragon Ball Super and other parts of the franchise, playing key roles outside of the big battles—like training and supporting his friends.
His connections to Goku and Android 18 add a lot of depth to the story.
You’ll also spot Krillin getting involved with Shenron and the Dragon Balls, sometimes helping to save Earth. He stays relevant, even when he’s not the one throwing punches.
Representation in Spin-Offs and DB Multiverse
Krillin pops up in plenty of spin-offs, like Super Dragon Bros Z and the DBM novel. It’s honestly kind of impressive how he sticks around.
These stories dig into different sides of him—his quick thinking, the way he keeps his cool when things get rough. Sometimes you get a glimpse of Krillin’s strategic mind, which doesn’t always get enough credit.
In the DB Multiverse, which is this pretty popular fan manga, he’s portrayed as clever and gutsy. He doesn’t have those wild Saiyan power-ups, but he still manages to adapt and hold his own.
You end up seeing more of his personality here, and his leadership comes through in ways the main series sometimes skips. Maybe that’s why people keep coming back to him, even in all these alternate takes.