Android 21, the enigmatic villain from Dragon Ball FighterZ and Dragon Ball Super, often sparks discussion amongst fans due to her striking resemblance to Majin Buu. This isn't a coincidence; her design is a deliberate nod to the powerful pink behemoth, but with key differences that establish her unique identity. Let's delve into the reasons behind this visual connection and explore the nuances of her appearance.
What are the Similarities Between Android 21 and Buu?
The most obvious similarities between Android 21 and Buu are their physical features. Both characters share a round, plump physique, rosy pink skin, and large, expressive eyes. Android 21's hair also echoes Buu's somewhat chaotic, yet strangely elegant, style. These shared physical traits immediately draw a visual link between the two characters, creating an instant sense of familiarity for fans who know Buu.
Why Did the Creators Choose This Design?
The design choice wasn't arbitrary. The creators likely intended several things by making Android 21 visually reminiscent of Buu:
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Evoking Buu's Power and Threat: Buu is a formidable opponent known for his unpredictable power and destructive capabilities. By incorporating Buu's aesthetic into Android 21's design, the creators instantly establish her as a powerful and potentially dangerous character, even before she's fully introduced. This visual shorthand immediately suggests her threat level.
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Playing with Familiarity and Expectations: Drawing inspiration from a beloved (and infamous) character like Buu creates an instant connection with the audience. This familiarity allows for a certain level of intrigue and anticipation, making players eager to learn more about Android 21 and her capabilities.
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Highlighting a Thematic Link: While not explicitly stated, the shared design could also hint at a thematic link between the characters. Both are essentially artificial creations (Android 21 being an android, Buu being a being created from the remains of Bibidi's experiments) who possess immense and unpredictable power. This shared aspect might further contribute to their visual resemblance.
What are the Key Differences Between Android 21 and Buu?
While the similarities are striking, several crucial differences set Android 21 apart from Buu:
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Humanoid Features: While possessing a rounded body, Android 21 retains more distinctly humanoid features than Buu, such as more defined facial features and a more refined physique.
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Clothing and Accessories: Android 21 is often depicted in clothing, a significant departure from Buu's typically bare form. This clothing further distinguishes her from Buu and reinforces her more controlled and refined persona.
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Personality and Motivation: Android 21’s personality is markedly different from Buu's, showcasing a level of intellect and strategic thinking that is absent in Buu's mostly instinctual nature. Their motivations and goals also differ significantly.
Is Android 21 a "Buu-clone"?
It's inaccurate to label Android 21 a simple "Buu-clone". While the visual similarities are undeniable, her design serves more as a tribute or homage to Buu's memorable appearance, allowing the creators to tap into that familiarity while creating a unique and compelling character in her own right. The differences in personality, abilities, and overall design establish her as a distinct entity with her unique backstory and narrative arc.
In conclusion, the visual resemblance between Android 21 and Buu is a strategic design choice leveraging audience familiarity and establishing a character's threat level. However, numerous significant differences ultimately showcase Android 21 as a standalone character, not a mere copy of Majin Buu.
