Turles: The Enigmatic Saiyan Renegade of the Dragon Ball Universe
Introduction
Turles, a character from the Dragon Ball franchise, is a fascinating and complex figure who has captivated audiences with his intriguing backstory, striking resemblance to Goku, and formidable abilities. Created for the third Dragon Ball Z movie, "The Tree of Might," Turles is often described as the "what if Goku was evil" character, embodying a dark and ambitious version of the iconic hero Goku [2][4].
Turles is a low-class Saiyan warrior with a physical appearance that is almost identical to Goku, including similar hair and facial features, although with some minor differences such as a grey-ish skin tone [2][3]. This resemblance is not due to any familial relationship but rather a rare instance of unrelated individuals looking alike, possibly due to low genetic diversity among the lower classes of Saiyans in Universe 7 [2].
Role in the Story
Turles’s storyline begins with his introduction in "The Tree of Might," where he is depicted as a former member of the Saiyan Army under the Planet Trade Organization. However, he broke away to conquer planets on his own, establishing his own army known as the Turles Crusher Corps [5].
Turles’s primary plot involves planting a seed from the Tree of Might on Earth, a tree that requires the planet’s energy to grow and produce fruits that grant immense power. This plan is insidious, as the tree sucks the life out of the planet to bear these fruits, which are said to be consumed by gods [4].
Turles’s journey involves several key conflicts. He battles Goku and his friends to protect the Tree of Might and ensure its growth. Despite his significant power, which rivals Goku’s at the time, Turles is ultimately defeated by Goku [4].
In later appearances, Turles is seen in various alternate scenarios and timelines. For instance, he joins forces with the space pirate Bojack and confronts Goku and Vegeta, utilizing the fruit of the Tree of Godly Might to gain an upper hand [1]. He also appears in a multiversal tournament and engages in a battle with Cumber, another powerful Saiyan, where he showcases his ability to unlock the powers of an evil Saiyan [1].
Turles’s relationships with other characters are marked by his antagonistic nature. He attempts to corrupt Vegeta with an evil key, reflecting his philosophy that Saiyans are innately evil. However, Vegeta overcomes this corruption and defeats Turles, leading to a moment of introspection for the character [1].
Character Analysis
Turles’s personality is defined by his ambition, cunning, and ruthlessness. He is driven by a desire for power and revenge, particularly against Goku, whom he sees as a rival and an obstacle to his goals [1][4]. This ambition often leads him to form alliances with other powerful villains, such as Bojack, to further his own interests.
One of Turles’s significant strengths is his physical power, which is on par with Goku’s during their initial encounter. He also demonstrates strategic thinking, as seen in his plan to use the Tree of Might to gain immense power [4].
However, Turles’s flaws include his arrogance and underestimation of his opponents. His defeat at the hands of Goku and later Vegeta highlights his inability to fully grasp the strength and determination of his adversaries [1][4].
Despite these flaws, Turles undergoes a notable development in his character. After being defeated by Vegeta, he reflects on his actions and decides to return to his roots as a simple low-class Saiyan warrior with grand ambitions. This moment of peace, though short-lived, shows a glimmer of redemption and a return to his Saiyan pride [1].
Themes and Symbolism
Turles embodies several themes that are central to the Dragon Ball universe. One of the most prominent is the concept of ambition and the pursuit of power. Turles’s relentless drive for power serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the consequences of prioritizing power over other values [1][4].
Another theme is the nature of evil and whether it is innate or acquired. Turles’s attempt to corrupt Vegeta with an evil key raises questions about the inherent nature of Saiyans and whether they are predisposed to evil. This theme is further explored through Turles’s own character, who represents a dark mirror to Goku’s heroic persona [1].
The character also symbolizes the idea of redemption and the possibility of change. Despite his villainous actions, Turles’s moment of introspection and decision to return to his roots suggests that even the most flawed characters can seek redemption and find a new path [1].
Cultural Impact
Turles has had a significant cultural impact since his introduction. He has been well-received by fans for his unique blend of Goku’s appearance and a villainous personality. His appearances in various Dragon Ball games, such as the Xenoverse series, have further solidified his place in the franchise’s lore [2][3].
In adaptations and spin-offs, Turles has been portrayed consistently as a formidable and intriguing villain. His character has inspired fan art, cosplay, and fan fiction, reflecting his enduring appeal to the Dragon Ball community [2].
Critical Reception
Critics and audiences have had varied interpretations of Turles’s role in the Dragon Ball universe. Some praise his complexity and the depth he adds to the narrative, while others see him as a less nuanced villain compared to other characters like Frieza or Cell [2][4].
Despite these mixed reviews, Turles remains a beloved character among fans. His unique storyline and character development have contributed to his lasting impact on the franchise. The debates and discussions surrounding his character only add to his intrigue and the richness of the Dragon Ball universe [2][4].
Legacy
Turles’s legacy in the Dragon Ball franchise is that of a compelling and complex villain who challenges the traditional hero-villain dynamics. His character has inspired other works and character archetypes, particularly in the realm of anime and manga where the "what if" scenario is often explored.
His enduring appeal lies in his multifaceted personality and the themes he represents. As a character who embodies both ambition and redemption, Turles continues to be a subject of interest and discussion among fans and critics alike.
Turles’s influence extends beyond the Dragon Ball universe, contributing to broader conversations about the nature of evil, the consequences of ambition, and the possibility of redemption. His character serves as a reminder that even in a world of clear heroes and villains, complexity and nuance can make a character truly memorable.
