One of the most memorable and exciting moments of the Dragon Ball DAIMA anime was seeing Goku transform into the iconic Super Saiyan 4. After decades without this form being used, introducing this technique caused hype and shock across the globe, with fans talking about it even a week after the event.
In a recent interview with the director of episode #18, Aya Komaki, the scene in which Goku transforms for the first time was discussed, with the inspiration behind the moment revealed. The director’s reply not only gave fans a new appreciation for this iconic moment, but it also debunked one of the main theories about the series: Goku having access to the form before the battle.
Goku’s Super Saiyan 4 Was Born in DAIMA
The Director Explained the Origins of the Scene
After the success of Dragon Ball DAIMA episode #18, Komaki gave an interview talking about the process of creating this beloved entry in the series, which was translated by X @JordanLDurham. As expected, the focus of the interview was the introduction of Goku’s Super Saiyan 4 form, which has been the talk of the fandom for several weeks. When asked about the inspiration behind the transformation’s introduction, Komaki explained that their idea was to reflect the birth of Goku’s new technique. According to her, the colors and movements of the energy flowing around Kakarot were deliberate, as they resemble veins pumping blood to the heart.

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The energy of Goku’s power and his Saiyan heritage, represented by the Great Ape form, fused to create a new transformation for the hero. Komaki’s words make it clear that their intent behind the scenes was to give fans the idea that Super Saiyan 4 was not only awakened but born during the scene. This makes the transformation much more special for viewers, as they were witnesses to the beginning of a new era, with Super Saiyan 4 finally becoming canon.
Komaki Debunked a Popular Fan Theory
Goku Had No Access to the Form Before
When episode #20 was released, Goku gave Vegeta a brief but reasonable explanation as to the origins of his Super Saiyan 4 transformation. The hero explained that he had been training relentlessly after the battle against Buu, as he wanted to become stronger. During his training, he felt a new power awakening inside him, but he was unable to access it. His words, which were vague at best, caused many fans to believe that he meant he had always been able to transform into a Super Saiyan 4 from the beginning of the series.
Ever since the end of the series was released, this theory has quickly gained popularity among fans. Yet, Komaki’s revelation about the form’s origin completely debunks this theory, as the team behind the episode never intended for that to be the conclusion. Her interview explicitly states that Super Saiyan 4 was born during episode #18 of the anime, making it impossible for Goku to have awakened the form before. While it is understandable for fans to be confused, as the transformation has created many plot holes, it is apparent that Kakarot could not utilize the technique before episode #18.
Dragon Ball DAIMA will continue giving fans of this beloved franchise for many more weeks to come. As time es, new details and behind-the-scenes information will become available, giving fans a deeper understanding of this incredible show. Komaki’s interview is just an example of the revelations fans can expect soon.