Goten is often perceived as "ignored" primarily because he and Trunks show a lack of consistent dedication to training compared to characters like Goku and Vegeta. Their training is often only triggered by specific events or tournaments.
Lack of Consistent Training and Focus
The primary reason Goten is sometimes viewed as overlooked stems from his and Trunks' intermittent commitment to intense training.
- Infrequent Training: The reference highlights that their training mainly occurs when necessary, such as with Chichi, in the Hyperbolic Time Chamber during the Majin Buu Arc, or with Vegeta prior to tournaments. This contrasts sharply with Goku and Vegeta's relentless pursuit of strength through constant training.
- Complacency: Having achieved Super Saiyan status at a young age, Goten and Trunks may lack the drive to push their limits constantly.
- Priorities: Their youth and upbringing within a relatively peaceful period might lead them to prioritize other activities over rigorous training.
Narrative Focus Shift
The Dragon Ball narrative has evolved, shifting its spotlight to Goku and Vegeta, the perennial powerhouses.
- Power Scaling: As the series progresses, the power levels escalate dramatically, requiring characters to dedicate themselves entirely to training to remain relevant. Goten's comparatively relaxed approach makes it difficult for him to keep pace with the Saiyan elites.
- Goku and Vegeta's Central Roles: Goku and Vegeta are the central figures driving the main conflicts. Their continued growth and battles against increasingly powerful foes naturally take precedence in the storyline.
- Fusion Option: Goten and Trunks are often presented as a fused character, Gotenks, rather than individual powerhouses. This diminishes their individual development.
Conclusion
Goten's perceived neglect comes from his and Trunks' inconsistency in training dedication relative to Goku and Vegeta, combined with a narrative focus on the latter two as the primary drivers of the Dragon Ball story. Their sporadic training is not enough to compete with the consistent growth displayed by Goku and Vegeta.
