With the introduction of Son Goku’s powerful Super Saiyan 4 transformation in *Dragon Ball Daima*, many shonen enthusiasts have been eagerly anticipating its return. Now, the origins of “SSJ4” have been revealed in the twentieth episode of the new anime series, and fans may find it quite exciting to learn how Goku achieves this transformation.
When Neva places her hands on Mini-Goku, many anime fans believe that this Namekian has granted the Z Fighter the strength of Super Saiyan 4. In a surprising twist, Goku confirms in the finale of the series that he has always possessed the strength to transform into this state, stemming from his rigorous training following the battle against Majin Buu. However, what Neva did was significantly enhance the transformation process, allowing him to stand a chance against the formidable Lord Gomah.

What is the origin of the Super Saiyan transformation in the Dragon Ball universe?
Unfortunately, the origins of Super Saiyan 4 are closely tied to several other transformation forms within the shonen series. Super Saiyan 3 is explained similarly, as Goku had to undergo extensive training in the Other World to achieve this form during his fight against Majin Buu. Alongside this, Goku and Vegeta attained Super Saiyan Blue through training with Beerus and Whis in *Dragon Ball Super*, without needing the deaths of Krillin or Android 16 to unlock their new powers.
Even though this origin may disappoint some fans, Goku effectively utilized the full capabilities of Super Saiyan 4 in the finale of the series. This new state helped the Z Fighters to combat Gomah, creating a powerful defense against Majin Kuu, who sought to awaken Evil Third Eye to gain the upper hand. With Gomah defeated, Kuu transformed into the new king of the Demon Realm in a significant twist, searching for a way to reclaim his former glory after Goku’s group left.
Dragon Ball Super: Will Super Saiyan 4 make a return?
The question remains: if Goku can achieve Super Saiyan 4 in *Dragon Ball Daima*, why hasn’t he done so in *Dragon Ball Super*? It’s possible that the transformations such as Super Saiyan God, Super Saiyan Blue, and Ultra Instinct are seen as more powerful. During their initial battle with Beerus, Goku stated that Super Saiyan 3 was the highest transformation he could reach at that time.
Currently, with Toyotaro wanting to continue the manga after creator Akira Toriyama’s departure, there’s a possibility that Goku may unleash this form in a future *Dragon Ball Super* arc; however, this new revelation may leave many fans perplexed.
In *Dragon Ball GT*, Son Goku achieved Super Saiyan 4 during his battle against Baby, connecting with his Saiyan heritage and receiving support from his granddaughter Pan, while Vegeta sought a way to achieve this form with Bulma’s assistance.
Throughout the airing of Daima, the anime has been classified as “canon,” taking place in the timeline after the defeat of Kid Buu and before Beerus arrives on Earth, which makes the new explanation for the origins of Super Saiyan 4 quite intriguing.
Despite the potential disappointment among fans regarding this new explanation, Daima remains one of the final works of Akira Toriyama, adding significant depth to the stories of the Z Fighters. The finale aired on the exact anniversary of the manga’s creator’s passing, honoring Toriyama for his contributions to the genre. Hopefully, the elements introduced in Daima will play a role in the future of the series.