Dragon ball z

Dragon Ball's Goku isn't always viewed as the series' most intelligent character, but he's still responsible for some smart decisions!

Goku overpowering Yakon, his Twin Dragon Shot underwater, and swapping Ginyu with a frog in Dragon Ball.
Goku stands tall as Dragon Ball’s ultimate protagonist and strongest character, but he’s also an individual who’s prone to certain shortcomings. Goku’s courageous and selfless nature is never in question and he’s someone who’s consistently surpassed his limits through hard work and an indomitable spirit. That being said, Goku’s innocence and naivety often get the better of him and he’s not considered to be one of Dragon Ball’s smarter characters.

Brawn is frequently prioritized over brains in Dragon Ball and the former is usually the key to success in the characters’ many fierce fights. However, it’d be a disservice to Goku’s character to claim that he’s never experienced smart moments in and outside of battle. Goku might lack conventional intelligence and he’s unlikely to ace an exam any time soon. Goku may not get enough credit for it, but he’s still a character who’s managed to survive because of some surprisingly smart strategies and ideas.