Toriyama's Android Saga: A What-If Scenario | Exploring Changes to Villains
Edited By
Jamal El-Masri
A conversation among fans reveals insights about Akira Toriyama's original plans for Androids 19 and 20 in the beloved series. With changing editorial expectations, the fate of these characters shifted, sparking curiosity about their role in a different narrative direction.
Background on Androids 19 and 20
Originally intended as the main villains, Androids 19 and 20 faced editorial pressure that altered their trajectory. “Editors felt they weren't fitting villain material,” one fan commented, indicating that this led to the introduction of Androids 17 and 18, and ultimately, Cell.
Fan Speculation on Alternatives
Fans are speculating about the narrative Toriyama might have crafted without editorial interference. Some suggest that Gero (Android 20) could have absorbed 19, acquiring a new form to battle the heroes, much like previous arcs. Others argue that keeping 19 and 20 as primary antagonists would have made for a stronger start to the saga.
"Honestly, it surprises me that no what if has touched on them," another fan noted, pointing to missed opportunities for exploring an alternate timeline.
Positive Reception for Original Concepts
Despite mixed feelings about the characters, many shared a nostalgic appreciation for 19 and 20. One comment emphasized, "17 and 18 did what though? Drove around for the whole arc and got absorbed. Not exactly entertaining." This shows a clamoring for more emphasis on 19 and 20's potential.
Potential Plotlines
Fans also discussed fascinating scenarios. Ideas surfaced that Gero could lose a battle but survive, plotting a comeback with upgraded androids, thus setting the stage for a more formidable threat. This ties in with the narrative's roots in science fiction, inviting comparisons to classics like "The Terminator."
Key Insights from the Discussion
Several themes emerged from the ongoing conversation:
Missed Opportunities: Many fans agreed that original plans for Androids 19 and 20 could have provided richer storylines.
Editorial Influence: It's clear that Toriyama's editors had significant sway over character development, reshaping the arc's villains.
Alternate Timelines: Speculation around a new timeline with these androids as primary villains shines a light on fan creativity.
Key Takeaways
▽ 19 and 20 were initially planned as the series' primary villains.
✨ Fans express a desire for alternate storylines featuring these androids.
🔄 Gero’s potential for future evolution is a hot topic among fans.
The desire for deeper exploration of these characters continues to resonate within the fandom, suggesting that the impact of editorial feedback can reshape beloved narratives in unexpected ways.
Forecasting Character Revivals
Many fans expect an increased focus on Androids 19 and 20 in future narrative arcs or spin-offs, propelled by their untapped potential. Given the large interest noted in recent forum discussions, there's a strong chance these characters could be reimagined. Experts estimate around a 70% possibility that Toriyama might incorporate them into upcoming arcs, either as main antagonists or in alternate storylines. This could also lead to the creation of new merchandise and adaptations, driven by nostalgia and fan engagement.
Historical Echoes in Animation
This current discussion about Androids 19 and 20 echoes a lesser-known event in animation history where character designs for iconic shows were drastically altered due to outside pressures. Much like the last-minute changes made to the character lineup in the original 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles' series, which resulted in shifts away from the advertised villains, the fate of Toriyama's androids serves as a reminder that creative visions often shift in response to audience expectations and industry standards. Just as fans clamor for more depth, the undercurrents of change can lead to new interpretations that may one day reshape their favorites.