Among the lesser-known yet intriguing pieces of the Dragon Ball franchise,Plan to Eradicate the Saiyansstands out as a unique addition that combines nostalgic storytelling with a darker twist on the familiar Dragon Ball formula. Though it might not have the widespread recognition of other Dragon Ball movies, it serves as a bridge between game content and animated storytelling, offering a rare narrative that delves into Saiyan heritage and vengeance-driven plots. Understanding its storyline, characters, and connection to the broader series helps fans appreciate its place in the Dragon Ball universe.
Overview of the Movie
Plan to Eradicate the Saiyansis originally based on a 1993 Japanese video game for the Playdia system and later adapted into an OVA (Original Video Animation). This OVA received a remake in 2010 as part of the Dragon Ball: Raging Blast 2 video game. The 2010 version is often referred to as the ‘full movie’ due to its polished animation and streamlined story presentation. It features classic Dragon Ball Z characters and centers around a mysterious plot to eliminate the remaining Saiyans on Earth.
Title Variations
- Dragon Ball Z: Plan to Eradicate the Saiyans (1993)
- Dragon Ball: Plan to Eradicate the Super Saiyans (2010 Remake)
Main Plot Summary
The story begins with the sudden appearance of a dark miasma polluting Earth’s atmosphere. The Z Fighters Goku, Gohan, Vegeta, Trunks, and Piccolo investigate its source and discover that a new enemy, Dr. Lychee, a survivor of the Tuffle race, is behind it. The Tuffles, once native to Planet Vegeta, were annihilated by the Saiyans. Dr. Lychee now seeks revenge by resurrecting powerful warriors and deploying the mysterious Destron Gas to poison the planet.
The Z Fighters must combat familiar enemies like Frieza, Cooler, Turles, and Lord Slug, who are resurrected by Lychee’s technology. As they battle these villains, the real threat emerges Hatchiyack, a bio-weapon with immense power, created to destroy all Saiyans. The movie escalates into an intense showdown where the Saiyan heroes must unite their strength to defeat this overwhelming enemy.
Key Characters
The Saiyans and Allies
- Goku: The protagonist, always ready to protect Earth and face new threats.
- Vegeta: Prince of Saiyans, whose past connects him deeply to the conflict with the Tuffles.
- Gohan: A powerful half-Saiyan warrior aiding his father in battle.
- Trunks: Time traveler and son of Vegeta, committed to saving the future.
- Piccolo: A Namekian ally whose wisdom and strength support the group.
The Antagonists
- Dr. Lychee: A Tuffle scientist seeking revenge on the Saiyan race.
- Hatchiyack: A bio-engineered weapon whose power rivals the strongest Saiyans.
- Reanimated Villains: Frieza, Cooler, Turles, and Slug, brought back to life to serve Lychee’s plan.
Visual and Narrative Style
The 2010 version of the movie benefits from improved animation and smoother storytelling. Unlike the segmented 1993 OVA, the remake presents a cohesive narrative flow, making it easier to follow for modern audiences. The darker tone sets it apart from typical Dragon Ball movies, adding a layer of suspense and dread with the introduction of the Destron Gas and themes of revenge and extinction.
Atmosphere and Tone
This film carries a sense of urgency and foreboding. While Dragon Ball stories often focus on tournament battles or galactic threats, this one feels more personal. The revenge of the Tuffles is a direct consequence of Saiyan history, bringing a haunting reminder of their violent past. The film touches on themes of guilt, legacy, and the moral weight of power.
Canon Status and Relevance
WhilePlan to Eradicate the Saiyansis not considered canon in the main Dragon Ball timeline, it still holds value for fans interested in the extended universe. It presents what-if scenarios and alternate outcomes, much like the Dragon Ball Heroes and other spin-off content. It also showcases how remnants of the Saiyans’ past actions continue to affect their present, offering a rare introspective lens.
Connections to Dragon Ball Lore
- Explores the aftermath of the Saiyans’ destruction of the Tuffles.
- Introduces Hatchiyack, a powerful foe with a unique origin story.
- Demonstrates Vegeta’s evolving role, from ruthless warrior to protector.
Why Fans Should Watch It
For those who have already enjoyed the main arcs of Dragon Ball Z and are hungry for more content, this movie offers several compelling reasons to watch:
- Unique plot: A fresh storyline with direct ties to Saiyan history.
- High stakes: The threat of planetary destruction by toxic gas adds a new layer of danger.
- Fan service: Return of major villains like Frieza and Cooler, all in one setting.
- Character dynamics: Rare team-ups and emotional tension between Vegeta and the remnants of his past.
Reception and Legacy
Though it may not have reached the commercial success of other Dragon Ball titles,Plan to Eradicate the Saiyansis praised for its originality and bold tone. It stands out as a darker entry, offering action and insight into the legacy of the Saiyan race. The 2010 remake revitalized interest in the story and introduced it to a new generation of fans through the Raging Blast 2 game.
Plan to Eradicate the Saiyans Full Moviemay not be part of the main Dragon Ball timeline, but it delivers a powerful experience rooted in character history, moral consequence, and explosive action. It challenges the typical narrative structure and presents a villain who doesn’t seek power for its own sake, but vengeance for a tragedy wrought by Saiyan hands. For fans looking to explore every corner of the Dragon Ball universe, this movie is definitely worth watching.
Let me know if you’d like a version focused on the 1993 original or the 2010 remake alone!