This Dandadan character desperately needs development (& it's not Kouki)

Yukinobu Tatsu's Dandadan presents a supernatural universe where characters experience profound changes while battling external supernatural dangers and private inner conflicts. Critics frequently analyze Momo and Okarun's relationship progression and Aira's detailed character development, but Vamola serves as an extraordinary, refreshing presence in the manga's chaotic world.

Vamola differs from many characters because she maintains her pure-hearted optimism and resilience through her unique story development. Having already survived the unimaginable warfare that decimated her species, Vamola's potential character development presents an intriguing challenge for Tatsu.

Disclaimer: This article reflects the opinions of the writer.

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Vamola’s resilient joy and the emotional depths in Dandadan

Vamola's current characterization serves a crucial purpose in Dandadan's narrative. Where other characters struggle with insecurities, past traumas, or hidden agendas, she provides an emotional counterbalance through her genuine enthusiasm and uncomplicated joy.

The Space Gobalists arc established her as the last surviving child of her species, carrying not just the genetic future of her people but also their spiritual resilience. Her exceptional nature comes not from her impressive abilities but from her ability to find gratitude and wonder in her new life on Earth, even after losing everything.

Kinta and Vamola as seen in the manga (Image via Viz Media)

This quality makes her immediately endearing, but it also creates a narrative challenge: In what ways can Tatsu craft a character who exhibits an extraordinary ability to withstand emotional challenges? Several potential paths exist for Vamola's character development that could add depth without compromising her essential nature.

The most compelling would involve her mother's return, creating an emotional bridge between her past and present. This reunion would inevitably force Vamola to reconcile her new Earth family with her original one, potentially creating moments where her perpetual optimism might be temporarily challenged.

Such moments wouldn't represent character regression but emotional complexity, allowing readers to see how someone with Vamola's resilient spirit processes complex feelings of divided loyalty or cultural identity.

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Vamola’s growth via Kinta and compassion over vengeance in Dandadan

Another potential avenue involves Vamola's relationship with Kinta, which represents an interesting contrast in character types. Where Kinta struggles with insecurity masked by bravado, Vamola embodies authentic self-acceptance. Their dynamic could evolve beyond simple comedic relief as Kinta's growing emotional maturity deepens their connection.

This development might allow Vamola to reveal moments of doubt or fear that she usually keeps to herself for the sake of others. The potential confrontation with the Kur organization leader also presents opportunities for nuanced character work.

Rather than pushing Vamola toward revenge, which would contradict her established character, Tatsu could use this encounter to showcase the radical power of Vamola's compassion. In a manga where supernatural abilities abound, Vamola's capacity for empathy, even toward those who have harmed her people, could prove more transformative than any alien technology.

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Conclusion

What makes Dandadan exceptional is Tatsu's ability to subvert conventional character arcs while delivering emotional satisfaction. In this context, Vamola doesn't need to become darker, more serious, or more complex to develop as a character.

Instead, her growth might manifest through how her inherent optimism influences others, creates unexpected alliances, or transforms seemingly impossible situations.

As the series continues its wild supernatural journey, Vamola represents something precious: a reminder that survival itself can be an act of defiance and that maintaining joy in a chaotic universe requires its own kind of strength. Her development may not follow conventional narrative paths, but that's entirely fitting for a manga that consistently defies expectations.

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