When Did Goku First Go Super Saiyan 4

Alright, buckle up, Dragon Ball fans! We're diving into a fuzzy, red-furred transformation that still sparks debates and excitement: when did Goku first go Super Saiyan 4?
It's not quite as straightforward as his initial Super Saiyan transformation. Remember the iconic golden hair and furious screaming from the Frieza saga? This one's got a bit more…monkey business involved.
The GT Twist
To pinpoint the moment, we gotta head to Dragon Ball GT. Some fans love it, some...well, let's just say they have opinions. But regardless, it's the only place you'll find Super Saiyan 4.
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GT sees Goku turned back into a kid, thanks to a wish gone wrong. It’s a bit like a super-powered Benjamin Button situation, only with more screaming and fewer Oscar nominations.
The Golden Great Ape Predicament
Before Goku reaches the coveted SSJ4 form, there’s a hairy pit stop: the Golden Great Ape. Remember how Saiyans can transform into giant apes under a full moon?

Well, imagine that, but golden and brimming with unrestrained power. Goku, as a kid, loses control in this form. It's less "hero protecting Earth" and more "destructive toddler with city-leveling strength."
It was actually Pan's tears that helped Goku remember who he was. Talk about a heartwarming moment amid the chaos!

The Grand Transformation
So, when does he finally ditch the ape fur and embrace the red-furred glory of Super Saiyan 4? It happens in episode 35, titled "Goku Turns into Super Saiyan 4!!" (Spoiler alert, eh?) of Dragon Ball GT.
After regaining control of the Golden Great Ape form, thanks to Pan's love, Goku undergoes another transformation. The Golden Great Ape slowly shrinks back to his normal size, until he achieves the form that is Super Saiyan 4.
His tail regrows, his hair turns black, and he gains red fur across his body. And let's not forget the red eyeliner! It's a look, to say the least.

"I am neither Goku nor a Saiyan. I am the one who will defeat you!"This quote is attributed to Goku during the transformation. It marks a turning point in his fight against Baby and emphasizes the power he had obtained through the transformation.
The transformation sequence itself is…intense. There’s a lot of yelling, energy surging, and close-ups of Goku's face contorting in exertion.

Why SSJ4 Still Matters
Even though GT isn't considered canon by some, Super Saiyan 4 has lingered in the Dragon Ball consciousness. It’s a visually striking form with a unique blend of Saiyan and Great Ape features.
It represents a connection to the Saiyan heritage that is less reliant on simply amplifying power and more on embracing what it means to be a Saiyan. This form demonstrates a unique understanding and control of the Saiyan form.
Plus, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good power-up with a dash of primal fury?
