"Dragon Ball: Episode of Bardock" is a short anime special that serves as a spin-off to the "Dragon Ball" franchise, focusing on Bardock, the father of Goku. The story begins with Bardock, a low-class Saiyan warrior, facing Frieza's destruction of Planet Vegeta. After a fierce battle against Frieza's forces, Bardock is seemingly killed when Frieza's energy blast engulfs him. However, instead of dying, Bardock is transported back in time to an unknown planet in the past.

Upon awakening, Bardock encounters a primitive civilization under threat from Chilled, a tyrannical space pirate and an ancestor of Frieza. The inhabitants mistake Bardock for a legendary savior due to his Saiyan armor and immense strength. Initially indifferent to their plight, Bardock is drawn into the conflict when Chilled attacks the villagers. Bardock's Saiyan instincts and sense of justice compel him to confront Chilled, leading to a climactic battle.

During the fight, Bardock experiences a transformation into a Super Saiyan, triggered by his anger and determination to protect the innocent. This transformation overwhelms Chilled, who retreats in fear, leaving Bardock as the planet's protector. The special concludes with Bardock embracing his new role, hinting at his legacy as a warrior who defied tyranny and inspired hope.

The narrative explores themes of redemption, legacy, and the Saiyan warrior spirit, while expanding on Bardock's character beyond his original portrayal in the "Dragon Ball Z" special "Bardock: The Father of Goku." The special provides a self-contained story that connects Bardock's past to the broader "Dragon Ball" lore, offering fans a glimpse into the origins of the Super Saiyan legend.