Death Battle and the problems with power scaling

Death Battle is a web series that debuted on December 6, 2010, featuring matchups between fictional characters in heavily researched, animated duels—often concluding with a decisive, and usually fatal, outcome.

A major aspect of the show is power scaling, a method used to compare characters’ abilities based on their demonstrated feats. While intended to provide clear answers, power scaling often sparks more controversy than consensus. Even with extensive breakdowns and calculations, fans frequently challenge Death Battle’s conclusions, as different communities value different forms of evidence.

For instance, the show analyzes raw numbers—such as Goku’s energy output or Superman’s speed using frame-by-frame measurements—but some Dragon Ball fans argue that authorial intent should take precedence over calculations. Likewise, in Dio vs. Alucard, many believed Dio’s time-stopping ability should have led to victory, despite the show’s explanation.

Comic book debates add another layer of complexity—should Superman’s most extreme feats from various eras count, or only recent portrayals? Since power scaling lacks a universally accepted method, Death Battle often fuels debates rather than resolving them.