For almost three decades, Dragon Ball fans have wondered if Vegeta would ever reach the Super Saiyan 3 transformation. While Vegeta has often caught up with Goku in terms of power, this specific form has always been out of his reach.
In Dragon Ball Daima Episode 12, that finally changes as Vegeta unlocks Super Saiyan 3 while fighting Tamagami No. 2 during their quest for the Demon Realm Dragon Ball.
Not only is this moment satisfying for fans, but it’s also officially part of the Dragon Ball timeline, as Akira Toriyama, the series’ creator, played a major role in the story.
Why Goku Got Super Saiyan 3, But Vegeta Didn’t
Super Saiyan 3 was first introduced in Dragon Ball Z during the Majin Buu Saga in 1994, nearly 30 years ago. Goku achieved this form after training in the Other World, where his dead body could handle the intense strain of the transformation.
This form gave Goku a massive boost in power and speed, but it also drained energy very quickly, making it difficult to use for long periods.
Vegeta, on the other hand, never reached Super Saiyan 3. In the story, Vegeta focused on improving his Super Saiyan 2 form instead of chasing a form that used so much energy. From a storytelling perspective, the decision likely helped keep Goku ahead in terms of transformations, while Vegeta developed in other ways, like his pride and determination.
By the time Dragon Ball Super introduced stronger forms like Super Saiyan God and Super Saiyan Blue, Super Saiyan 3 became less important. Many fans assumed Vegeta had skipped it entirely, focusing on more efficient power-ups.
Vegeta Finally Unlocks Super Saiyan 3 in Dragon Ball Daima
Vegeta Super Saiyan 3 in Daima, but adult… ✍️ pic.twitter.com/Gz5gpwAR3E
— DanielArts (COMMISSIONS OPEN) (@DanielArts_98) December 27, 2024
Dragon Ball Daima, the newest anime in the franchise, features a unique storyline where Goku, Vegeta, and others are turned into children by a Demon King. The group sets out to collect the Demon Realm Dragon Balls to undo this transformation.
In Episode 12, Vegeta faces Tamagami No. 2, a powerful opponent, in an underwater battle. The environment puts Vegeta at a disadvantage, and he struggles to keep up. When he’s pushed to his limit, Vegeta finally unleashes his hidden power and transforms into Super Saiyan 3 for the first time.
Super Saiyan 3 Vegeta FULL Transformation sequence and final battle with Tamagami 2 (Powered Up Magic Boost).
— Geekdom101 (@EmperorBigD) December 27, 2024
From #DragonBallDaima Episode 12. pic.twitter.com/hc6kDUtpXf
This moment is both visually stunning and emotionally satisfying. The long golden hair and electric aura of Super Saiyan 3 add to Vegeta’s usual intensity, making this transformation a standout moment in the series. His new power allows him to overwhelm Tamagami and turn the tide of the battle.
Is Dragon Ball Daima Canon?
One of the biggest questions fans have is whether this version of Vegeta’s Super Saiyan 3 is canon to the main Dragon Ball timeline. The answer is yes. Akira Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball, was deeply involved in Dragon Ball Daima. He came up with the story, designed the characters, and ensured that the series fits within the official continuity.
Unlike spinoffs like Dragon Ball GT, Dragon Ball Daima is a core part of the Dragon Ball universe. Vegeta’s transformation is now an official part of his story.
Vegeta’s Super Saiyan 3 transformation is more than just a power-up; it’s the resolution of a long-standing question in the series. For years, fans debated why Vegeta didn’t achieve this form.
Some argued it was because he didn’t need it, while others believed it was simply a choice to keep Goku ahead. No matter the reason, this moment finally gives fans the closure they’ve wanted since 1994.
Additionally, bringing back Super Saiyan 3 in Dragon Ball Daima feels fresh because it’s tied to Vegeta’s character growth. The transformation isn’t just handed to him; it’s earned through his struggle and determination, which fits his personality perfectly.
