User blog comment:DodgerNYC/Do we want superpowers?/@comment-25044414-20131121025118/@comment-190.38.225.137-20141209054249

We have two intertwined shows at the moment: Arrow and The Flash. In my opinion, they both work out, but it will be increasingly difficult to make them mix well. What I like about Arrow is the constantly evolving teamwork, even though tensions mount and the team could start falling apart at any minute. Also, no matter how smart you are, how advanced your gadgets or how harsh your training, violent death is always a risk. Thus the entire show hinges on the reminder that we're all very vulnerable, and it only takes the wrong kind of poison, bullet or kick to kiss life goodbye with no chance of returning. Despair at its most alluring.

The Flash goes in the exact opposite direction. Flash flies in the face of the laws of physiscs and, just like like an anime hero, his team and his training allow him to become more and more powerful. This show has made it very clear that, while there's room for great fear, there is also room for great hope, because anything is possible (even before the particle accelerator, of which RF is proof).

Should there be superpowers in Arrow? I think it is inevitable. But keep them to a minimum, use them sparingly and always make sure there is a BELIEVABLE, coherent way to exploit the supe's weakness(es) so it won't feel completely lopsided. If you keep it balanced and resist the urge to Dragonball-ize it all, we will be able to continue enjoying Arrow ('cept for the Days-of-our-Lives bits), superpowers or not.