Android 17, the fan-favorite character from the Dragon Ball universe, is more than just a powerful fighter; he's a complex individual with a surprisingly compelling backstory. While he's widely known as Android 17, his real name, often overlooked amidst the battles and energy blasts, adds another layer to his intriguing character.
What is Android 17's Real Name?
Android 17's real name is Laplace. This name, while not as frequently used as his android designation, is canonically confirmed within the Dragon Ball Super manga and associated materials. The name itself lends a subtle air of mystery, fitting for a character who spent much of his early life as a weapon before finding redemption.
Why is He Called Android 17?
Dr. Gero, the mastermind behind the androids, created Android 17 and his twin brother, Android 18, as part of a plan to destroy Goku. He assigned them numerical designations to identify them within his creations; hence, Android 17. This designation became his primary identifier, especially amongst his enemies and in the context of the ongoing battles.
Is Android 17's Real Name Important?
While his designation as Android 17 is more commonly used, knowing his real name—Laplace—adds depth to his character. It provides a glimpse into his past before he was repurposed as a fighting machine, suggesting a degree of humanity that goes beyond his artificial nature. It helps to personalize the character and distance him slightly from the cold, calculating android persona Dr. Gero intended.
Why is Android 17's Backstory Significant?
Understanding Android 17's backstory and his name is crucial to appreciating his character arc. His transformation from a cold, emotionless killer to a dedicated game warden showcases his surprising capacity for growth and redemption. This evolution, amplified by his real name, gives weight to his eventual allegiances and actions throughout the Dragon Ball Super series.
What Other Androids Were Created by Dr. Gero?
Dr. Gero created a number of androids, each with their own unique capabilities and levels of threat. Besides Android 17 and 18, other notable androids include:
- Android 16: A powerful, pacifistic android initially programmed to destroy Goku.
- Android 19 & 20 (Dr. Gero): Earlier androids with energy-absorbing capabilities.
- Cell: A bio-android created using the cells of powerful fighters.
This exploration of Android 17's real name, along with understanding his backstory and his place within the larger context of the androids created by Dr. Gero, offers a richer understanding of this compelling character in the Dragon Ball universe. His journey is a testament to the possibilities of change and redemption, even for a being created as a weapon.
