Orange Piccolo is a powerful and imposing new form acquired by Dragon Ball’s iconic Namekian warrior during the Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero movie. When Shenlong, the eternal dragon, granted Goku’s green friend this skill, he commented that it resulted from his hidden potential. When it was first introduced, the series made it seem as if it was just another unique transformation to help Piccolo defeat the eccentric Gamma 1 and 2 androids, and the monstrous Cell Max.
Yet, after the revelation that Namekians were originally from the demon realm in Dragon Ball DAIMA episode 1, this form has taken a whole new meaning. Piccolo’s unused potential could have been the dormant demonic genes of his race being awakened for the first time. This would explain not only his impressive boost in strength but also the drastic physical change he went through.
Orange Piccolo Might Be The Namekian's Demonic Form
His Features Are Similar to Those of Demon King Piccolo
After realizing that he was not powerful enough to defeat the brilliant Dr. Hedo’s Gamma 1 and 2 androids, Piccolo went in search of the Dragon Balls to become stronger. The wish Shenron granted him awakened the hidden potential he had inside, giving him the ability to use an Ultimate form similar to the one used by Gohan. Additionally, Shenron said that he put "a little extra" in it, which resulted in Piccolo's Orange form. In this state, Piccolo is stronger and more durable than any other Namekian in the franchise. Despite how much he struggled to fight against the Gammas during their first encounter, Piccolo easily managed to defeat them while in Orange form.
With the information revealed in Dragon Ball DAIMA about the origins of the Namekian race, which used to reside in the demon realm, this powerful form has become more interesting. For many years, one of the only ways for a Namekian to become stronger was to absorb another member of their race, like Piccolo had done with Nail and Kami. There had never been a mention of a transformation among this iconic race. Seeing as this form comes from the dormant potential of Piccolo, this implies that power was born from the demonic genes inside the green warrior.
If that’s the case, the abrupt change in appearance that comes with the transformation would make a lot more sense. In this form, Piccolo adopts an appearance that looks several times more feral, like that of his father, the threatening Demon King Piccolo. Both beings are several times more muscular and taller, as well as sharper than average fangs. There is a high likelihood that Shenron gave Piccolo access to the demonic abilities of his race, which had been lost to time as the Nameks adapted to Universe 7.
Namekians From The Demon Realm Could Have Originally Looked Like This
Orange Piccolo Hints at His Race's Original Form
Demon King Piccolo has always distinguished himself from other of his race for his unique appearance. His looks were obtained due to the darkness that resided inside him, making him one of the few of the Demon Clan. Yet, DAIMA might have proven that there is still a lot more to discover about the Nameks. There is a high likelihood that the transformation acquired by Piccolo was the original appearance of the of his race born in the demon realm.
Truthfully, Orange Piccolo's explanation in Super Hero was very disappointing, so it would be great if that plot point would be revisited. Dragon Ball DAIMA has already proven that it will change many preconceptions fans had about the franchise with its shocking revelations. The truth about the Namekian’s origin could alter how many traits of this beloved race are seen. Many more details about these beloved aliens and Piccolo’s Orange transformation might be introduced in future episodes of this new entry in the franchise.

Dragon Ball DAIMA is the fifth overall series in the action-adventure anime franchise. It features most of the classic cast as de-aged versions of themselves, including Goku, Vegeta, and Bulma. The series was announced at NYCC 2023, with creator Akira Toriyama returning to handle DAIMA's run.
- Seasons
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