Understanding Oolong’s Shape-Shifting Abilities in Dragon Ball

Dragon Ball enthusiasts frequently inquire, “Is Oolong a shapeshifter?”due to his reduced presence after the initial arcs of the series, which may have led many to overlook his unique abilities. The reality is that Oolong is indeed a shapeshifter, and his powers have proven to be quite beneficial for Goku and his allies earlier in the storyline.

Additionally, Oolong’s character highlights the distinctions between the Dragon Ball version of Earth and our actual world. The series features numerous characters endowed with extraordinary powers, with Oolong being one of the most notable examples.

Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers from the series.

Understanding Oolong’s Shapeshifting Powers

The character as seen in the anime (Image via Toei Animation). — The character as depicted in the anime (Image via Toei Animation).

Oolong hails from the Shapeshifting Academy, which is where he acquired his transformation abilities. However, he is limited to maintaining his shape for only five minutes due to his expulsion from the academy. After each transformation, he must wait at least one minute to regain his energy, a limitation stemming from his incomplete training at the Shapeshifting Academy.

Throughout the series, Oolong has demonstrated a flexible range of transformations, capable of turning into a giant robot, a motorcycle, human forms, rockets, and much more.

It is important to note that while Oolong can change his appearance, he cannot mimic the strength or abilities of the person or object he transforms into.

Oolong’s Additional Skills and Strengths in Dragon Ball

Oolong earlier in the series (Image via Toei Animation). — Oolong in earlier episodes of the series (Image via Toei Animation).

Aside from his shapeshifting ability, Oolong has not displayed other significant strengths in Dragon Ball, as he typically serves as comic relief for the central characters.

The frequent questioning of “Is Oolong a shapeshifter?”stems from the fact that his prime time in the spotlight was during the series’ earlier segments, leading many fans to forget his capabilities.

His shapeshifting skills were notably utilized during the Tournament of Power arc in Dragon Ball Super. Here, Master Roshi requested Oolong to transform into a woman to help him manage his desires, enabling him to focus and compete at his best in the tournament.

Aside from these moments, Oolong has maintained a minor status throughout most of the series, often seen in the background residing at Kame House with Master Roshi, Krillin, and other characters.

Ultimately, Oolong is depicted mostly as a comedic figure, which contributed to his sidelining as the series progressed into more action-driven narratives.

Final Thoughts

It is entirely understandable for many Dragon Ball fans to ponder the question, “Is Oolong a shapeshifter?”given the significant reduction of his role in the storyline over time, leading to a possible forgetfulness regarding his powers.

Oolong can transform into various beings or objects for five minutes, a limitation rooted in his incomplete training at the Shapeshifting Academy.

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