Summary
A good defense is just as important as a good offense. And whileDragon Ballis infamous forsome of the greatest attacks in the anime world, one technique that often saves the day is the energy shield. Fans know that the Energy Shield has evolved into one of the series' staple defense mechanisms, and has been showcased by many of the series' most powerful fighters, and it serves as a vital defensive tool in battles where raw power alone isn’t enough to survive.
But what exactly is this energy shield, how does it work, and why is it such a crucial part of theDragon Ballcombat system?
What is an Energy Shield?
The energy shield is essentially a barrier createdthrough advanced manipulation of ki, or life energy, which is a fundamental source of power for most characters in the Dragon Ball universe. By compressing their ki into a sealed form, fighters are able to create an invisible, semi-permeable shield that can block or absorb incoming attacks. Depending on the user’s strength and skill, the shield can be strong enough to defend against planetary destruction.
While most fighters with even a basic understanding of ki can theoretically use energy shields, the technique requires substantial mastery to make it effective in high-stakes situations.
How Does the Energy Shield Work?
The mechanics behind the energy shield involve a process of ki compression. The user gathers and condenses their ki into a specific form, creating a barrier. This barrier can repel physical objects and energy-based attacks, allowing the user to withstand assaults that would otherwise be catastrophic. A fully formed energy shield can block intense beams of energy, waves of ki blasts, and even environmental hazards like vacuum or extreme heat.
These shields can be adapted to the fighter’s needs. For example, some versions, such as the Saiyan Barrier, form tight skin-level shields for close combat situations, while others create larger protective domes, safeguarding multiple people. The versatility of these shields allows fighters to tailor their defense in response to specific threats.
Major Uses of Energy Shields in Dragon Ball
Goku’s Use of Energy Shield
Throughout the series, Goku has been seen using the energy shield technique on multiple occasions, often in moments of dire need. A prime example is his battle with Piccolo, where Goku utilized the shield to fend off a Scatter Finger Beam while preparing a one-handed Kamehameha.
In the Tournament of Power, Goku and Vegeta use a version of the Saiyan Barrier to protect themselves during their fight against Universe 9.
Vegito’s Skin-Level Shield
One of the most iconic uses of the energy shield came when Vegitowas absorbed by Super Buu. To protect himself from getting chewed, Vegito used a skin-tight energy shield to maintain his form, preventing Buu from consuming him entirely. This shield, later referred to as the Saiyan Shield in the Raging Blast video game series, became a vital part of Vegito’s defense tactics.
Broly’s Planetary Survival
Perhaps one of the most striking examples of an energy shield’s potential is seen with Broly, who as an infant used his raw power to create a barrier strong enough to survive the destruction of Planet Vegeta. The fact thatBroly could instinctively create such a powerful shieldat such a young age speaks to both his immense potential and the staggering defensive capabilities of energy shields in the right hands.
Comparisons with Other Ki-Based Abilities
Energy Shield vs. Aura
The energy shield shares similarities with the ki aura that many fighters use for both offensive and defensive purposes. For instance,Jiren uses his overwhelming kias a passive shield, repelling weaker attacks simply by standing still. This is a more passive form of defense compared to the conscious effort needed to form a traditional energy shield.
Auras tend to offer less focused protection but compensate with the ability to nullify lesser attacks without active intervention. However, in direct confrontations with powerful enemies, fighters often rely on energy shields for more concentrated and reliable defense.
Android Barrier
Another notable variation of the energy shield is the Android Barrier, a specialized defensive technique used by the androids of the Red Ribbon Army. Characters like Android 17 and Android 18 use these shields to block powerful attacks. Android 17’s barrier, for example, was crucial during his battle with Piccolo, where it proved durable enough to withstand a barrage of explosive attacks.
While similar to the standard energy shield, the Android Barrier has additional offensive capabilities, allowing the user to counterattack after absorbing an assault. This combination of offense and defense makes the Android Barrier particularly formidable in fast-paced battles.
Dragon Ball
Dragon Ball is a franchise by Akira Toriyama which follows the adventures of Goku, a powerful warrior who protects the earth with his group of friends. A recent title from the series is Dragon Ball: The Breakers, an action style game where 7 players have to survive being hunted by the Raider.
