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The Pointlessness of Superhuman Battles: Why Consistency Matters

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Superhuman battles are a beloved subject in the world of comics and fiction. Fans enjoy watching characters clash with incredible powers and abilities. However, the sceptics among us often wonder if these battles are truly pointless. This article explores the reasons behind the inconsistency in superhuman power levels and why maintaining consistency could enhance the overall enjoyment of these battles.

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Why Consistency is Essential for Enjoyment

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One of the primary reasons why people might find superhuman battles unenjoyable is the inconsistency in the characters' power levels. The strength and capabilities of superhumans can vary dramatically, often depending on the whims of the writers involved. For instance, a character could go from being almost invincible in one episode to barely sticking a note on a wall in the next. This inconsistency can make it difficult for fans to predict the outcome of a conflict, which can detract from the entertainment value.

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Take, for example, the case of the Dragonball Super Tournament of Power. Majin Buu's immense abilities would have rendered Jiren nearly useless. To maintain the interest of the tournament, the writers had to come up with a convoluted reason that Buu could not participate. Similarly, battles like Venom vs. Superman often leave fans divided, as the writers often either nerf or enhance one side to ensure a 'balanced' outcome. This approach can be frustrating, as it often fails to mirror the intended strengths of the characters.

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Examples of Inconsistency in Superhuman Power Levels

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Goku's Power Levels: Goku, one of the most beloved characters in the Dragonball series, has an ever-changing power level. Some fans believe he can destroy entire universes, while others argue he casually blew up a planet in his first appearances. This inconsistency can make it challenging for fans to keep track of his true strength.

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Superman and Wonder Woman: Superman, a character with god-like abilities, cannot be killed by magic, a well-known weakness. However, Wonder Woman can break his arm, which seems inconsistent. When it comes to a direct confrontation, Darkseid, a powerful DC character, can hold his own against Superman unless it's a one-on-one fight, in which case Superman is almost invincible.

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The Impact of Inconsistent Power Levels on Battle Outcomes

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The inconsistent power levels of superheroes and villains often lead to one-sided victories or indecisive outcomes. Consider the debate between 'who would win' or 'who should win.' While the first approach might seem straightforward, it often leads to deadlocked arguments due to the varying interpretations of a character's power levels. For instance, comparing Galactus and Darkseid, despite not being heroes, often results in hate from fans who feel the contest is unfairly biased.

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Another common scenario is a total one-sided victory or the iconic response of 'It depends...' This approach is often driven by the need to account for personality traits or the writer's intent. In theory, this might seem fair, but in practice, it can be unexciting and leaves little room for a truly engaging battle.

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The Case for Realistic Power Levels

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Not all characters suffer from inconsistent power levels. Some portrayals are more balanced and real-world inspired. Characters like Superman, who have clearly defined limits, or even those with realism, such as the One Punch Man's infamous protagonist, make for more interesting and less frustrating battles. These characters often draw less haters because their power levels are more consistent and predictable.

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Realism in power levels can enhance the immersion and enjoyment for fans. It allows for a more nuanced and believable portrayal of characters, which ultimately contributes to a more satisfying reading or viewing experience. When a character's strengths and weaknesses are well-defined, it makes their battles more exciting and the outcomes more meaningful.

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Conclusion

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In conclusion, the inconsistency in superhuman power levels often makes superhuman battles less enjoyable for fans. Maintaining consistency in character abilities can enhance the enjoyment and appeal of these fictional battles. While it's natural for writers to manipulate power levels to suit their goals, finding a balance where each character's strengths and weaknesses are well-defined can lead to more engaging and satisfying conflicts. This approach not only improves the overall narrative but also enhances the emotional investment of the audience.