Introduction
In a galaxy brimming with spiky, gravity-defying hairstyles and explosions of raw energy, Burter, a member of the infamous Ginyu Force, stands out for a reason that may surprise even the most seasoned Dragon Ball fan: his strikingly long, flowing blue hair. In the vast, often chaotic landscape of Dragon Ball Z, where power levels are constantly escalating and transformations are commonplace, Burter represents something unique – a blend of quirky aesthetics, undeniable speed, and unexpected comedic timing. He is a reminder that even within the ranks of ruthless villains, there can be character depth and a unique charm.
The Ginyu Force, an elite squad of mercenaries directly under the command of the galactic tyrant Frieza, are renowned throughout the universe for their dramatic poses, synchronized attacks, and individual, often bizarre, power sets. These intergalactic commandos were summoned to Namek when Vegeta, Krillin, and Gohan started to interfere with Frieza’s search for the Dragon Balls. More than just muscle, they represented a level of theatricality and showmanship previously unseen in Frieza’s army. They brought a level of ridiculousness that sharply contrasted the seriousness of the situation. Among this peculiar group, Burter, the self-proclaimed fastest being in the universe, holds his own with his distinctive blue hair and unwavering confidence. While perhaps not the most powerful, or the most remembered, Burter’s design, abilities, and unexpectedly humorous moments make him a memorable and significant, though often overlooked, member of the Ginyu Force.
A Blue Streak Against the Stars
The first thing that captures the eye when Burter appears on screen is undoubtedly his long blue hair. It cascades down his back, defying gravity with its volume and seemingly perfect styling even in the midst of battle. Its very existence within the Dragon Ball universe is somewhat of an anomaly. Most Saiyans, Frieza’s soldiers, and even many of the universe’s strongest fighters sport short, spiky hairstyles – a hallmark of the Dragon Ball aesthetic. This deviation immediately sets Burter apart. His blue hair signifies individuality within the strict hierarchy of Frieza’s army, and lends an aura of unusualness to the character.
Beyond the hair, Burter’s physical appearance complements his overall persona. He is tall and well-built, indicative of his status as a capable fighter. His skin is a deep, almost purple, shade of blue, further contributing to his alien appearance. Like all members of the Ginyu Force, he wears the signature Ginyu Force armor, a dark, sleek suit that provides protection while allowing for mobility. However, even in this uniform, his blue hair remains the focal point, drawing attention and establishing him as a distinct presence.
Compared to other characters, especially within the Ginyu Force, Burter’s design choices are particularly striking. While Recoome is brutish and imposing, Guldo is small and arguably grotesque, and Captain Ginyu is imposing and regal, Burter strikes a balance between imposing strength and a somewhat more refined aesthetic. His blue hair can be interpreted as a symbol of his self-proclaimed speed and agility, a visual representation of his fleeting presence on the battlefield. It is not just the color, but also the length and style. It’s carefully maintained, suggesting a level of vanity or at least an awareness of his own appearance, which further adds to his quirky personality.
Speed Demon and Purple Comet
Burter’s primary claim to fame is his incredible speed. He boasts of being the fastest being in the universe, a statement that, while likely exaggerated, does have some merit. In the context of the Namek Saga, before Goku unlocks Super Saiyan, Burter’s speed is genuinely impressive. He demonstrates this ability by blitzing across the battlefield, creating afterimages and overwhelming his opponents with sheer velocity. While it is later overshadowed by the transformative speed of Super Saiyan Goku, the impression of Burter’s velocity remains imprinted within the saga.
His speed isn’t just for show, either. It’s integral to his fighting style. Burter uses his speed to overwhelm opponents, delivering rapid-fire strikes and dodging attacks with ease. He can close distances instantly, leaving enemies little time to react. He’s extremely agile and able to traverse the battlefield with great quickness. However, his strength is less impressive, which is proven in his fight with Goku. He can’t easily take a hit from Goku and is overwhelmed by the Saiyan’s newfound power.
Burter’s abilities aren’t limited to solo combat, however. He also forms a formidable team with Jeice, another member of the Ginyu Force. Together, they execute the “Purple Comet Hurricane,” a devastating combination attack where they coordinate their movements to create a whirlwind of purple and orange energy, overwhelming their opponent. This team attack highlights the Ginyu Force’s unique approach to combat – a blend of individual strength and synchronized teamwork, often with a dash of theatrical flair. While Burter’s speed is the foundation of his individual strength, his coordination with Jeice enhances his overall power, making him a dangerous opponent.
Arrival on Namek
The Ginyu Force’s arrival on Namek marks a significant turning point in the saga. Frieza, facing mounting resistance from Vegeta, Krillin, and Gohan, summons his elite squad to retrieve the Dragon Balls and ensure his wish for immortality. The Ginyu Force’s arrival is preceded by a palpable sense of dread and anticipation, setting the stage for a series of intense and bizarre battles.
Burter, along with the rest of the Ginyu Force, initially overwhelms the Z Fighters with their overwhelming power levels and outlandish techniques. He and Jeice team up to take on Goku, who at first seems to struggle against their coordinated attacks. However, as Goku powers up and reveals his true strength, Burter and Jeice quickly find themselves outmatched. Burter, used to being the fastest and most dominant force on the battlefield, is shocked and bewildered by Goku’s newfound power.
Burter’s overconfidence and arrogance, traits common among the Ginyu Force, ultimately contribute to his downfall. He underestimates Goku’s potential and is unable to adapt to the Saiyan’s rapidly increasing strength. When Goku incapacitates Jeice with one strike, Burter is left vulnerable and quickly defeated. His defeat, along with the rest of the Ginyu Force (excluding Ginyu), signifies a power shift and underscores the growing threat of Goku and the Saiyans. The Ginyu Force raised the stakes significantly. Their unique powers and coordinated attacks required the Z Fighters to push themselves beyond their limits. The defeat of the Ginyu Force marks a turning point, signaling the nearing climax of the Namek Saga and the ultimate confrontation with Frieza.
Arrogance, Speed, and Showmanship
Beyond his speed and appearance, Burter’s personality is a defining aspect of his character. He is undeniably arrogant, constantly boasting about his speed and underestimating his opponents. This arrogance, however, is also intertwined with a sense of showmanship. He enjoys the spectacle of battle and takes pride in his abilities, relishing the chance to display his speed and power. This arrogance and showmanship are present throughout his interactions with the Z Fighters.
The Ginyu Force as a whole is characterized by their humorous poses and antics. Burter is no exception. He participates in the group’s synchronized routines with enthusiasm, contributing to the overall comedic effect. These moments of levity, while sometimes jarring given the seriousness of the situation, serve to lighten the mood and provide a welcome contrast to the intense battles.
Burter’s relationship with Jeice is particularly noteworthy. They function as a well-oiled machine, complementing each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Jeice, with his energy-based attacks and strategic thinking, provides support for Burter’s speed-based assault. Their synchronized attacks and coordinated movements are a testament to their teamwork and training. They are an undeniable duo and their connection is essential to the Ginyu Force’s success. Their chemistry adds to the comedic appeal.
A Legacy in Blue
While Burter may not be the most powerful or the most prominently featured character in the Dragon Ball universe, he has nonetheless carved out a niche for himself within the fandom. His unique blue hair, combined with his impressive speed and humorous personality, has made him a memorable and beloved character for many. He and the rest of the Ginyu Force possess an unusual aesthetic that has kept them popular for years.
Burter has appeared in countless Dragon Ball video games, often as a playable character. His speed and agility make him a formidable opponent in fighting games, while his unique abilities are faithfully represented in RPGs and other game genres. He is a staple for team based games where unique team synergy is necessary. His striking design and humorous antics have made him a popular subject for fan art, cosplay, and other forms of creative expression.
The Ginyu Force’s enduring presence in the Dragon Ball franchise is a testament to their unique appeal. They have appeared in numerous spin-offs, games, and other media, cementing their status as iconic villains. Their over-the-top personalities and outlandish techniques continue to entertain fans of all ages, ensuring that the Ginyu Force, and Burter with his signature blue hair, will remain a part of the Dragon Ball legacy for years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Burter, the Ginyu Force member with the distinctive long blue hair, is more than just a fast fighter. He is a blend of speed, showmanship, and unexpected humor. His unique design, combined with his arrogant personality and his coordinated teamwork with Jeice, has made him a memorable and beloved character within the Dragon Ball universe. He may not be a main character, but his contributions to the story, particularly during the Namek Saga, are undeniable. Ultimately, his presence underscores the importance of unique design and character quirks in creating a lasting impact within the sprawling Dragon Ball universe. Does the unusual style of Burter suggest there is room for more artistic expression in the world of Dragon Ball?
