Goku vs. Vegeta
From a general place, the first fight between Goku and Vegeta is iconic for many reasons. It’s the clash of the biggest rivalry of the entire series but it also marks the first time we see one battle element that Dragon Ball Z is now known for — the great beam tug-o-war. Dragon Ball Z is filled with intense moments where two characters fire off their own type of projectile or beam attacks at each other at the same time. The beams clash in the middle and the true test of strength begins as one fighter tries to get their beam to overcome the other. The original fight between Goku and Vegeta set the precedent for this when Goku fried his Kamehameha while Vegeta unleashed his Galick Gun.
This moment highlighted the vivid colors that seem to be a true trademark of the series and stands out as one of the most beautiful elements of the animation style. This moment looks aesthetically impressive and also introduces a level of suspense and intensity that now pulses through Dragon Ball Z’s veins.