The Dark Side of Superheroes: Equivalent Characters to Goku Black and Superman Black
The Dark Side of Superheroes: Equivalent Characters to Goku Black and Superman Black
In the world of superheroes, just as Goku has Goku Black as an evil counterpart, there are equivalents for Superman as well. This discussion delves into the various dark sides of superheroes, focusing on the closest parallels for "Superman Black" and how these characters fit the mold.
Introduction to Ultra Man: The Closest Equivalent to Superman Black
When considering the concept of "Superman Black," Ultra Man emerges as the closest equivalent. Ultra Man, a figure from Japanese manga and anime series, shares similarities with Superman. However, unlike Goku Black who stole Goku's body, Ultra Man has always been his own entity. Ultra Man originates from another universe where he is depicted as an evil version of Clark Kent, much like how "Superman Black" could represent an evil counterpart from another dimension. This makes Ultra Man the most fitting representation of the "Superman Black" concept.
Comparing Ultra Man and Superman Black
Ultra Man and what we could refer to as "Superman Black" share several similarities:
Both have a background of immense power that can be harnessed for evil purposes. Both represent the darker, malevolent side of a hero. Ultra Man, similarly to how Cybertronian Superman (Cyborg Superman) could be considered, is an alien with enhanced capabilities that he uses for nefarious goals.Cyborg Superman: The Dark Reflection of Superman
Another character that closely parallels "Superman Black" is Cyborg Superman. Hank Henshaw, a former astronaut on a mission with his friends and wife, suffered mutations due to a solar flare, much like the crew of the Fantastic Four. Unlike Goku Black who took Goku's name and appearance, Cyborg Superman begins as Hank Henshaw, who ends up with a body largely identical to Superman's, albeit with cybernetic enhancements.
The dark origin story of Cyborg Superman places him in a similar context as Goku Black. Here are the key aspects of his transformation:
Tragic Circumstances: The solar flare mutates him, causing him tremendous pain and anguish. He refuses to die, willingly sacrificing his body to save his crew, and transfers his consciousness into an artificial body designed to resemble Superman. Misinformation and Trauma: Hank learns that a solar flare caused by Superman killed his crew, leading to his mental breakdown and determination to seek revenge. Rivalry and Conflict: Cyborg Superman takes up the mantle of "Superman" briefly, but when he returns to Earth and learns that Superman had already been killed, he becomes obsessed with avenging his crew and dismantling what he believes to be a threat to his existence. Balanced Powers: Cyborg Superman possesses powers nearly equal to Superman, making him a formidable and terrifying opponent in the saga.Conclusion: The Man of Steel's Dark Mirror
In conclusion, while Ultra Man and Cyborg Superman are both dark reflections of their heroic counterparts, Ultra Man represents an "evil Superman" from another universe, whereas Cyborg Superman provides a more earthly perspective on a hero turned villain. Both share the essence of being powerful, but used for harm instead of good, making them the closest equivalents to the "Superman Black" concept.