Table of Contents
Dragon Ball is a beloved anime franchise that has captivated audiences around the world. With its rich storylines and memorable characters, it can be a bit overwhelming for newcomers to know where to start. This guide will help you navigate the best way to watch Dragon Ball, from the original series through to Dragon Ball Super, in chronological order.
1. Dragon Ball
The journey begins with the original Dragon Ball, which aired from 1986 to 1989. This series introduces us to Goku as a child and follows his adventures as he seeks out the Dragon Balls, meets friends and foes, and learns martial arts.
Key Arcs in Dragon Ball
- The Emperor Pilaf Saga
- The Tournament Saga
- The Pilaf Saga
- The Tournament Saga
- The King Piccolo Saga
- The Piccolo Jr. Saga
These arcs lay the foundation for Goku’s character and the overarching themes of friendship and perseverance.
2. Dragon Ball Z
Following the original series, Dragon Ball Z aired from 1989 to 1996. This series is where the franchise truly exploded in popularity, introducing new characters and escalating battles.
Key Arcs in Dragon Ball Z
- The Saiyan Saga
- The Frieza Saga
- The Cell Saga
- The Buu Saga
Each saga builds upon the last, introducing powerful foes and showcasing Goku’s growth as a fighter.
3. Dragon Ball Z Kai
Dragon Ball Z Kai is a remastered version of Dragon Ball Z that aired from 2009 to 2015. It condenses the original series, removing filler episodes and enhancing the animation quality.
Why Watch Dragon Ball Z Kai?
- Faster pacing due to fewer filler episodes
- Enhanced visuals and sound
- A more streamlined story experience
For those who want a quicker and more visually appealing way to experience the story, Dragon Ball Z Kai is an excellent option.
4. Dragon Ball GT
Dragon Ball GT aired from 1996 to 1997 and is a sequel to Dragon Ball Z. While not based on Akira Toriyama’s manga, it follows Goku as he is turned back into a child and embarks on a new adventure.
Key Points about Dragon Ball GT
- Introduces new characters like Pan and Baby
- Explores different themes compared to previous series
- Mixed reception among fans
Though opinions on Dragon Ball GT vary, it is still part of the overall narrative and can be watched for completion.
5. Dragon Ball Super
Dragon Ball Super aired from 2015 to 2018 and takes place after the events of Dragon Ball Z. It expands the universe with new gods, universes, and powerful foes.
Key Arcs in Dragon Ball Super
- The Battle of Gods Saga
- The Resurrection ‘F’ Saga
- The Universe 6 Saga
- The Future Trunks Saga
- The Universe Survival Saga
This series reintroduces familiar characters while also bringing in new ones, making it a must-watch for fans.
6. Movies and Specials
In addition to the main series, there are numerous movies and specials that expand on the Dragon Ball universe. Some notable ones include:
- Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods
- Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection ‘F’
- Dragon Ball Super: Broly
These films often feature alternate storylines or powerful new characters, providing additional content for fans to enjoy.
Conclusion
Watching Dragon Ball in order enhances the viewing experience, allowing you to appreciate character development and story arcs. Starting with Dragon Ball and progressing through to Dragon Ball Super, including the films, will give you a comprehensive understanding of this iconic series.