6 Ways Goku is a better main character than Naruto

There is often a competition between the faces of shonen anime Dragon BallSon of Goku and NarutoNaruto Uzumaki. These two anime characters often go head-to-head in countless online forums, where fans discuss who is the stronger fighter or, more recently, who is the better father. These comparisons are inevitable considering the huge influence Son Goku and Naruto Uzumaki have among shonen fans.

This time, instead of debating who would win in a serious fight between full-powered Goku and Naruto or which anime or manga series is objectively better, take a moment to appreciate. Why Goku stands out as a better main character than Naruto. No offense to Naruto, but Goku outsmarts him in many ways Dragon Ball and Naruto Fans can expect.

Goku doesn't seek validation

Whereas Naruto Uzumaki needs a sense of belonging Naruto series, Dragon Ball's Son Goku is not the type of protagonist who seeks validation from other characters. He has no regard for his public image, shrugging off any derogatory comments and ignoring even compliments. In many ways, Son Goku is the exact opposite of Naruto, who is easily angered when someone refuses to acknowledge him.

After all, Son Goku doesn't need validation from others. Instead of trying his best to please other people, he does everything for himself and his family and friends. What is important to Goku is not recognition or acceptance, but the excitement of facing opponents far stronger than him and pushing his limits. In short, he has no time to think about unnecessary things that do not directly affect and improve his life.

Goku rarely complains

Between Goku and Naruto, the latter is the one who often complains about unfair treatment and difficult situations. Instead of accepting and dealing with situations like Goku, Naruto tends to lash out or voice his frustrations, especially when he feels misunderstood. He is more emotionally reactive than Goku, who only plays it cool when faced with such adversity. Instead of dwelling on these situations, Goku is eager to move forward with the same happy face and enthusiasm.

For example, Naruto often complains about Jiraiya and Kakashi's harsh training. He also complains about Sakura and his unfair treatment towards her, not to mention the less challenging missions that Hiruzen asks them to complete. He also makes lame excuses to avoid awkward situations. In contrast, Goku only complains about being hungry or when Chichi asks him to do housework.

Goku is honest and innocent

One of the reasons fans love Sun Goku is his honesty and innocence, which never wavers no matter what the situation. Even when fighting powerful opponents, he remains straightforward and honest, never resorting to deception to defeat them. The best part is that Goku, unlike Naruto and most shonen anime heroes, is not a pervert.

While the early episodes Dragon Ball Put Goku in some situations where he shows naive curiosity towards girls like Bullma, these moments are flawless. In contrast, Naruto engages in deliberately perverted activities, from looking at girls with Jiraiya to using his sexy jutsu to transform into curvy women to making awkward advances towards Sakura and brazenly cracking crude jokes about women to get a little attention.

Goku has good ambitions

As fans know, Naruto Uzumaki's lifelong dream is to become Hokage, to be accepted and respected by the Hidden Village. He never stopped talking about this incredible dream, even afterwards Naruto Shippuden finished and Boruto started Fortunately, Naruto realized this ultimate goal by becoming the Seventh Hokage of Konoha and the strongest shinobi in the world.

While Naruto's ambition is incredibly impressive, Son Goku sees life differently. His ambition knows no end, as he does not aim for titles or recognition. Instead, he has a relentless desire to become stronger. Complacency, contentment, and contentment are not in Goku's vocabulary, no matter how powerful he becomes.

Goku wins through actions, not words

Naruto Uzumaki is notorious for his Talk no Jutsu, which he often uses to convince his powerful opponents to give up revenge, hatred, or darkness through deep and heartfelt dialogue. The best example of this is Nagato, who Naruto successfully reasoned with, proving that words alone can be as powerful as an almighty push as long as they are in the right hands.

Meanwhile, Son Goku doesn't rely on unnecessary words or persuasion to resolve conflicts, even if he's up against a cosmic-level opponent. All he needs is his brute strength, speed, sharp senses, and unquenchable thirst to defeat his enemies, proving that actions still speak louder than words. For many shonen fans, they prefer a hero like Goku because he lets his actions define him. Also, there is no drama involved.

Goku still remains iconic

While Son Goku and Naruto Uzumaki are both iconic anime characters, it's undeniable that Goku's influence is greater, thanks to his timeless appeal, action-driven heroism, and likable personality. He's not a very complex character that fans need to dissect just to understand and like him. He's simple and straightforward, making him easy to root for and entertaining to watch.

Goku doesn't even need an emotional backstory to leave a lasting impression on fans. He needs to raise his hand in preparation for a Spirit Bomb to unleash Kamehameha's massive force or make the fans sit up. His instant teleportation technique or sudden transformation into Super Saiyan is enough to enthrall the audience.