A ranking based on personal aesthetics and narrative impact, selecting the three most outstanding Great Ape transformations in Dragon Ball history. Goku's transformation into a Golden Great Ape in Dragon Ball GT takes first place, his initial transformation in the early Dragon Ball series ranks second, and Cumber's Great Ape form comes in third.
Ranking third is Cumber's form in Super Dragon Ball Heroes. After transforming into a Great Ape, Cumber retains his mask, clothing, and broken restraints, with a hairstyle resembling a combination of Super Saiyan 3 and the Golden Great Ape. The author views this as the most visually unique design, while clearly stating that this form is not part of the official canon.
Second place is Goku's first unconscious transformation into a Great Ape after gazing at the moon in the early Dragon Ball series. The author considers that this sudden change introduced a sense of danger to what was previously a lighthearted adventure story, and it was the first hint at the secrets behind Goku's tail and his Saiyan heritage.
The top spot goes to Dragon Ball GT. With the help of Earth's light, Goku transforms into a Golden Great Ape and subsequently achieves the Super Saiyan 4 form. The author believes this storyline connects the early Great Ape concept with the later Super Saiyan system, serving as a crucial turning point in the battle against Baby Vegeta. This ranking reflects the author's evaluation of nostalgia, design, and narrative payoff, rather than an official power scaling or canon designation.