Did Krillin Kill Cell? Exploring the Role of Krillin in the Cell Saga

Did Krillin Kill Cell? Exploring the Role of Krillin in the Cell Saga

In the Dragon Ball Z series, Krillin is one of the most strategic and courageous members of the Z Fighters, often playing a pivotal role in major battles despite being outmatched by superpowered enemies. During the Cell Saga, Krillin faces numerous challenges as the Z Fighters confront Cell, one of the most dangerous villains in the series. While Krillin does not deliver the final blow to kill Cell, his actions significantly influence the outcome of the battle and contribute to the eventual victory.

This article delves into Krillin’s role during the Cell Saga, the key decisions he makes, and why the idea of Krillin killing Cell remains a fascinating “what-if” scenario for fans.

1. Krillin’s Role in the Cell Saga

1.1 Encounter with the Androids

Before Cell achieves his perfect form, Krillin plays a significant role in the story through his interactions with Android 18:

• Falling for Android 18: Despite initially viewing the androids as enemies, Krillin develops romantic feelings for Android 18, showcasing his compassionate nature.
• Destroying the Remote: Krillin is given a remote control by Bulma to deactivate Android 18, preventing Cell from absorbing her. However, his feelings for her lead him to destroy the remote, indirectly allowing Cell to achieve his perfect form.

1.2 Battles Against Cell

Krillin participates in several battles against Cell, showcasing his bravery and determination:

• Fighting Imperfect Cell: Krillin joins the fight to slow down Imperfect Cell while the Z Fighters strategize, knowing he is significantly outmatched.
• Assisting the Team: Throughout the saga, Krillin uses his techniques, such as the Destructo Disc (Kienzan) and Solar Flare (Taiyoken), to support his allies and create openings in battle.

2. Krillin’s Decision to Spare Android 18

2.1 The Moral Dilemma

Krillin’s choice to destroy the remote and spare Android 18 is one of the most critical moments in the Cell Saga:

• Reasons for Sparing Her: Krillin believes in giving her a chance for redemption, much like Goku’s philosophy of sparing Vegeta during the Saiyan Saga.
• Consequences: This decision allows Cell to absorb Android 18 and reach his perfect form, significantly increasing the threat level to Earth.

2.2 Fan Debate

Krillin’s decision has sparked debate among fans:

• Supporters: Argue that Krillin’s actions led to Android 18’s eventual redemption and her role as a Z Fighter.
• Critics: Point out that sparing Android 18 put the world at greater risk, making Cell much more difficult to defeat.

3. The Battle Against Perfect Cell

3.1 Krillin vs. Perfect Cell

Krillin bravely confronts Perfect Cell, using his martial arts skills and energy techniques to distract and weaken the villain. Although Cell easily overpowers him, Krillin’s efforts buy time for stronger fighters like Goku and Gohan to prepare.

3.2 The Cell Games

During the Cell Games, Krillin plays a supportive role, helping protect the other fighters and ensuring Android 18’s safety after she is freed from Cell’s body.

4. Did Krillin Ever Have a Chance to Kill Cell?

While Krillin never directly defeats Cell, there are hypothetical scenarios where he might have succeeded:

• Using the Remote: If Krillin had used the remote to deactivate Android 18, Cell would never have reached his perfect form, potentially allowing the Z Fighters to defeat him earlier.
• Strategic Attacks: If Krillin had landed a perfectly timed Destructo Disc on Cell, it could have inflicted significant damage, as the technique is known for its cutting power.

5. Fan Speculations and What-If Scenarios

5.1 Alternate Timelines

In fan discussions and “what-if” scenarios, Krillin is sometimes imagined as the hero who defeats Cell:

• What-If Stories: Some fans theorize that if Krillin had used the remote or a powerful ki attack, he could have altered the course of the saga.
• Game Adaptations: Certain Dragon Ball video games allow Krillin to defeat Cell in alternate endings or special missions.

5.2 Would Krillin’s Techniques Have Worked?

Krillin’s Kienzan (Destructo Disc) could theoretically harm Cell, as it has shown the ability to slice through powerful opponents. However, Krillin’s limited power level compared to Cell’s regeneration abilities makes this scenario unlikely in the main timeline.

6. The Actual Defeat of Cell

6.1 Gohan’s Role

Ultimately, it is Gohan who delivers the final blow to Cell during the Cell Games, using a Father-Son Kamehameha with the support of Goku’s spirit. This moment solidifies Gohan’s role as the hero of the saga.

6.2 Krillin’s Contribution

While Krillin does not directly kill Cell, his efforts to support his friends and protect Android 18 play a vital role in the battle’s outcome.

7. Why Krillin Killing Cell Matters to Fans

7.1 Underdog Hero

As one of Earth’s strongest humans, Krillin represents the possibility of an underdog overcoming impossible odds. The idea of Krillin killing Cell appeals to fans who admire his bravery and determination.

7.2 A Symbol of Redemption

If Krillin had defeated Cell, it would have been a fitting redemption for his earlier decision to spare Android 18, tying together his personal and heroic arcs.

7.3 Legacy of Teamwork

Krillin’s contributions in the Cell Saga demonstrate that even without landing the final blow, his teamwork and sacrifices are crucial to the Z Fighters’ success.

8. Conclusion

While Krillin does not kill Cell in the Dragon Ball Z series, his role in the Cell Saga is indispensable. From his moral decision to spare Android 18 to his strategic support in battle, Krillin’s actions shape the outcome of the story and contribute to the eventual victory over Cell.

The idea of Krillin defeating Cell remains a popular “what-if” scenario among fans, symbolizing the potential of even the most underestimated fighters to make a difference. Whether or not he delivers the final blow, Krillin’s courage, loyalty, and ingenuity ensure his place as one of the most beloved characters in Dragon Ball.

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