One possible scenario could be that Goku discovers a new power within himself during the Cell Games that allows him to not only survive but also defeat Cell more easily. Maybe it's a hidden form that he unlocks at the last moment.
Perhaps in the fanfiction, Goku survives because of the help of an unexpected ally. This ally could have some special ability or knowledge that gives Goku an edge. For example, a time - traveler who warns Goku about Cell's secret moves and helps him come up with a counter - strategy.
It could be someone from Goku's past who has a vendetta against him and takes advantage of the chaos during the Cell Games. For instance, an old enemy who was thought to be defeated but managed to come back stronger and wants to finish Goku off while he's weakened from the fight with Cell.
In some 'goku gets hurt fanfiction', he might get hurt while protecting his friends or family. For example, he could take a fatal blow meant for someone else. This would not only physically harm him but also add an emotional aspect to the story as his loved ones would be worried and try to save him.
Well, perhaps in the fanfiction, Goku gets mad when he discovers that someone has been using his name for evil deeds. This would go against his values of justice and protecting the innocent. He might get really angry and go on a search to clear his name and stop the impostor. Or it could be that a new, extremely powerful villain emerges and starts to destroy planets without any remorse. Goku, being the defender of the universe, would be enraged by such senseless destruction and would confront the villain with all his might.
One interesting concept could be new power - ups for Goku. Maybe he discovers a unique form during the Cell Games in the fanfic.
Perhaps Gohan sacrifices himself to save the other Z - fighters. He might choose to take on Cell's full - power attack that was meant for all of them, and in the process, he loses his life. In the fanfiction, it could also be that Cell has some sort of hidden power - up that catches Gohan off - guard and leads to his death.
One possible fanfic could be about Goku's intense training before the Cell Games. He might be shown pushing his limits in the Hyperbolic Time Chamber, trying out new techniques and forms to defeat Cell. Maybe he discovers a new power level that no one, including himself, expected.
One possible scenario could be that Goku Black starts to see the value in the lives he once thought of as insignificant. Maybe he befriends some of the Z - fighters and begins to understand the concept of protecting rather than destroying. For example, he could start to train with Goku and Vegeta, learning their ways and slowly changing his mindset.
In some 'Goku meets Goku fanfiction', they could team up against a super powerful enemy that neither could defeat alone. They would combine their signature moves like the Kamehameha for an ultimate attack.
If Goku was brought back after the Cell Games, it could have led to unexpected alliances or rivalries. Also, his presence might have prevented some future villains from emerging or made their plans much more difficult.
Well, Goku is surely one of the main characters as it's related to the Cell Games. He is the central figure in the fight against Cell.