Saiyans

A warrior race once enslaved by fear, now rising as the universe's ultimate guardians.

The Saiyans are a legendary warrior race from the planet Vegeta, characterized by their monkey-like tails, immense battle potential, and an innate drive for combat. Originally serving as mercenaries under the Frieza Force, they were renowned throughout the galaxy for their ability to conquer planets for sale before being wiped out by their former employer. Despite near-total annihilation, a few survivors scattered across the cosmos, most notably on Earth, where they evolved from ruthless invaders into humanity's greatest protectors. Their biology allows them to transform into giant ape-like beasts under a full moon and unlock god-tier power levels through intense training and emotional triggers.

Quick Facts

Origin

Planet Vegeta

Primary affiliation

Frieza Force (formerly), Z-Fighters (Earth)

Key members

Goku
Vegeta
Nappa
Raditz
Broly
Gohan
Trunks
Goten

Lore & Background

The Saiyans were a proud but brutal species who thrived on conflict. They utilized advanced technology to conquer planets and sell them to the highest bidder, operating as the muscle for the tyrannical Frieza Force. However, their growing power eventually threatened their master, leading Frieza to destroy Planet Vegeta in a catastrophic explosion that erased nearly the entire race from existence. Those who survived were few: Raditz, Nappa, and Vegeta remained loyal soldiers of Frieza, while Goku (then Kakarot) was sent to Earth as an infant.

The Saiyan bloodline continued through mixed heritage with humans, creating a new generation of hybrids who possess even greater potential for growth. The race possesses a unique biological mechanism where exposure to the light of a full moon triggers a transformation into a Great Ape, multiplying their power tenfold. Later discoveries revealed that certain Saiyans could achieve the legendary Super Saiyan state through extreme emotional trauma and rigorous training, unlocking golden-haired forms that defy normal limits.

Reader's Guide

The Saiyan faction embodies the warrior archetype in the Dragon Ball universe, with a Saiyan ability to grow stronger when in a near-death state. Their narrative arc is a dramatic reversal of fortune; born as ruthless mercenaries selling planets to the highest bidder under Frieza's iron fist, they were nearly erased when their own strength threatened their master.

Did You Know?

The Great Ape transformation is triggered by absorbing Blutz Waves from a full moon or artificial light source.
Saiyans are named after vegetables: 'saiya' is an anagram of the syllables for 'yasai', which means vegetable.