Now that Goku has reverted back into a childlike state,Dragon Ball Daimahas returnedthe Power Poleto its rightful user, and it justified this decision in a great, realistic way.Goku’s Nyoibo, or Power Polein the series' English translation, was present from the very beginning of the hero’s adventure. Becoming part of Goku’s iconic image over the course ofDragon Ball,the magical staff was useful in battles throughout the early saga, before being left behind as the series' warriors all increased in strength.
The weapon served as one of the earliest links between Goku and Master Roshi, the old Turtle Hermit having given the staff to Grandpa Gohan who then left it for his rescued grandchild.Its original purpose was a tool for reaching Kami’s Lookout, but its usefulness dwindled as Goku mastered flying and hand-to-hand combat, and the Power Pole eventually became background dressing during scenes inDragon Ball Z,GT, andSuper. Thanks to a selfish wish on the Dragon Balls, though,Daimapromises to return Nyoibo to relevancy.
The Power Pole Reclaims Its Iconic Status in Dragon Ball Daima
Goku’s Long Forgotten Weapon Returns to Battle
Though Goku left the Power Pole behind as the series transitioned into the Saiyan Saga, the iconic artifact remained close by in official illustrations, and was even featured inDragon Ball Z’s earliest rendition of the “CHA-LA HEAD-CHA-LA” intro sequence. Unfortunately, ignoring small roles inthe series' noncanon movies, these sparse appearances were all that Nyoibo was awarded. And as Goku searches for his old, trusty weapon inDaima, it turns out thatRoshi had been using it to hang his laundry.
Thankfully, for fans ofDragon Ball’s early focus on close-quarters, small-scale combat, Goku retrieves the Power Poleand proves that he can still wield it, showing off his slick moves to Piccolo on the lookout tower. The originalDragon Ballanime, despite its age, contains several wonderfully animated and exciting martial arts sequences. And now that the Power Pole has returned to all its glory, it can be inferred thatDaimawill feature similar, familiar yet fresh, close-quarters confrontations.

Goku’s Small Stature Calls For the Power Pole’s Help
The Power Pole Will Help to Make Up For Goku’s Lack of Reach
Reminiscent of a concept first introduced inDragon Ball GT,Goku’s transformation into a childrestricts the use of his power. As seen inDaima’s second episode, he and the other fighters have a hard time flying, and later Goku struggles to acclimate to his smaller frame when throwing kicks. By reintroducing the Power Pole, Goku will be able to use his old weapon in new and creative ways in battle, making up for his lack of size with an ever-extending staff.
The full effects of the main cast’s return to childhood are yet to be seen, as through promotional material, it is confirmed that Goku and Vegeta will still have access to their Super Saiyan transformations. However,Goku’s lack of reach will always create the need for Nyoibo’s help, and the weapon’s inclusion is guaranteed to keep the fighting fresh in a series that has arguably become overly reliant on flashy beam attacks and unbelievable feats of strength. Fans should look forward to exciting battles followingDragon Ball Daima’s strong start.

Dragon Ball DAIMA
Cast
Dragon Ball Daima sees Goku and his allies inexplicably shrunk into miniature forms, prompting a journey to the Demon Realm. This animated adventure, part of the Dragon Ball franchise, explores their mission to solve the mystery and restore their original statures. Released in October 2024.