arian22 
Tien Shinhan. The stoic, three-eyed warrior. A master of martial arts, a loyal friend, and the wielder of one of the most devastating, yet strangely overlooked, techniques in the Dragon Ball universe: the Shin Kikōhō. While flashy ki blasts and planet-shattering punches often steal the spotlight, the Shin Kikōhō raw power and unique properties make it arguably the most underrated attack in the entire franchise.
The Kikoho itself is a powerful energy blast, but the Shin Kikoho takes it to an entirely different level. It’s a concentrated, focused beam of pure destructive energy, channeled directly from Tien’s life force. This crucial distinction is what sets it apart. It’s not just another ki blast; it’s a technique that pushes Tien to his absolute limit, risking everything for a single, overwhelmingly powerful strike.
Why is it underrated? Perhaps it’s because it’s not a visually spectacular, planet-busting explosion like some other attacks. Or maybe it’s because Tien himself isn’t a Saiyan, so his power is often perceived as less significant. Whatever the reason, the Shin Kikoho’s effectiveness is consistently underestimated, even though its track record speaks for itself.
Let’s look at the evidence:
- Stopping Cell: Perhaps the most iconic example of the Shin Kikoho’s power is its use against Perfect Cell. While others struggled, Tien, fueled by sheer willpower and the Shin Kikoho, managed to hold Cell back, giving Android 16 the opportunity to self-destruct. This wasn’t just a delay; it was a crucial moment that showcased the Shin Kikoho’s ability to restrain even the most powerful opponents. It bought precious time, changing the course of the Cell Games.
- Damaging Semi-Perfect Cell: Even before Cell achieved his Perfect form, Tien’s Shin Kikoho managed to inflict significant damage, forcing Cell to absorb Android 17 to reach his Perfect state. This demonstrates the attack’s potency against even highly durable opponents.
- A testament to Tien’s Skill: The Shin Kikoho isn’t just about raw power; it’s a testament to Tien’s incredible ki control and martial arts prowess. It requires immense focus and precision, making it a true reflection of his dedication to martial arts. It’s a technique born not from inherited power, but from relentless training and unwavering discipline.
- A Different Kind of Threat: Unlike many ki blasts that simply obliterate, the Shin Kikoho seems to possess a more concussive and disruptive force. It’s designed to overwhelm and incapacitate, rather than just destroy. This makes it particularly effective against powerful beings who can withstand standard energy attacks.
The Shin Kikoho isn’t a technique Tien spams. It’s a last resort, a trump card played when all else fails. It’s a testament to his character – a willingness to sacrifice everything for the greater good. It’s a risky move, pushing his body to the absolute limit, but the potential reward is immense.
In a world of Super Saiyans and universe-shattering attacks, the Shin Kikoho might not be the flashiest technique. But its raw power, its strategic application, and the sheer willpower behind it make it one of the most impactful and undeniably underrated attacks in the Dragon Ball universe. It’s a reminder that true strength isn’t just about explosive power; it’s about focus, discipline, and the courage to push beyond your limits. And in that regard, Tien Shinhan and his Shin Kikoho stand as a shining example.
Wren Crowe 
