Theory:Shape shifting

Main Article Theories about Shape shifting Main Discussion

The following fan theories are about Shape shifting.

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Theories

Theory	Citations	Notes
Supercharged shape shifting would not cause pain to its possessor.	None.	+ Supercharged powers work faster, if shape sifting takes less than five seconds, it probably would not cause pain. - Or maybe supercharging will increase this pain.
Shape shifting allows to morph into any living being.	None.	+ This ability seems to require physical contact with a person shapeshifter is going to morph into. A shapeshifter can possibly transform into an animal after touching it, since this ability doesn't seem to alter shapeshifter's DNA. - But surely a shapeshifter couldn't transform themselves into an ant or elephant—too much matter would have to be lost/created. And what about their consciousness? Will they retain their human intelligence if they shift into animal form? + Why not? Mystique from X-Men possesses such kind of shape shifting. It wouldn't be the first time Heroes show an ability shown in X-Men (for example, Claire's ability). • On the contrary, the original Mystique can only shift into state of similar mass to herself, and it seems illogical that James or Sylar would be able to do something like that.
Supercharged shape shifting would result in appearance alteration.	None.	+ It is one of few ways it could be extended. - A shapeshifter alters only their own appearance. • The theory is referring to a supercharge of the ability, which could lead to extension of the power. - Daphne was able to run through time because her speed increased. Matt heard all thoughts in the New York city because his telepathic range increased too. The functions of their abilities were amplified, but they were still the same. If a shapeshifter can change only their own appearance, they won't be able to change that of others no matter what. + Expanding the shape shifting resulting in ability extension would be a logical effect. - Supercharged shapeshifting may result in the ability to mimic clothes and other none-body-parts, such as glasses. This is something Sylar cannot do currently and would be the most logical extension of the ability. + Other characters have been able to expand their abilities onto other people and objects. Daphne supersped with Matt and Ando; Peter brought a piece of paper back from the future with him; Hiro teleports himself and others through time and space repeatedly; and they've all kept their clothing and personal effects with them while using their powers.