Akira Toriyama Anime List: Exploring the Animated Works of a Manga Legend

Akira Toriyama, the legendary manga artist and creator of Dragon Ball and Dr. Slump, has had a profound impact on the anime industry. While his primary contributions are in manga, many of his works have been adapted into anime, bringing his characters and worlds to life in vibrant motion. Beyond adaptations, Toriyama’s creative genius has also extended to designing characters for other anime and collaborating on special projects.

This article provides a detailed list of anime works associated with Akira Toriyama, highlighting their significance and appeal.

1. Anime Based on Akira Toriyama’s Manga

1.1. Dr. Slump (1981–1986, 1997–1999)

• Overview: This comedic series follows the eccentric inventor Senbei Norimaki and his android creation Arale as they navigate the whimsical village of Penguin.
• Significance:
  • Toriyama’s first major success adapted into anime.
  • Renowned for its humor and creative characters, it won the Shogakukan Manga Award.

1.2. Dragon Ball (1986–1989)

• Overview: The original Dragon Ball anime chronicles the adventures of a young Goku as he trains in martial arts and searches for the mystical Dragon Balls.
• Significance:
  • Laid the foundation for the global Dragon Ball franchise.
  • Combines lighthearted humor with action-packed storytelling.

1.3. Dragon Ball Z (1989–1996)

• Overview: A continuation of Dragon Ball, this series shifts focus to Goku’s adulthood, introducing high-stakes battles, powerful transformations, and iconic villains like Frieza and Cell.
• Significance:
  • One of the most influential anime of all time, cementing Dragon Ball as a global phenomenon.

1.4. Dragon Ball GT (1996–1997)

• Overview: A non-canon sequel to Dragon Ball Z, featuring Goku’s transformation into a child and exploring new adventures and enemies.
• Significance:
  • Though not directly based on Toriyama’s manga, he contributed character designs and initial concepts.

1.5. Dragon Ball Super (2015–2018)

• Overview: Set after the events of Dragon Ball Z, Super introduces new gods, universes, and transformations, including Ultra Instinct.
• Significance:
  • Toriyama actively contributed to the story and character designs, ensuring it aligned with his vision.

2. Movies Based on Toriyama’s Works

2.1. Dragon Ball Movies

• Key Titles:
  • Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods (2013): Introduced Beerus and Super Saiyan God.
  • Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection ‘F’ (2015): Brought back Frieza with a new golden form.
  • Dragon Ball Super: Broly (2018): Reimagined Broly with Toriyama’s involvement.
• Significance: These movies expand the Dragon Ball universe and offer high-quality animation and storytelling.

2.2. Dr. Slump Movies

• Several theatrical releases, including Hello! Wonder Island (1981) and Hoyoyo! Space Adventure (1982), showcase the charm and humor of Dr. Slump.

3. Anime Featuring Toriyama’s Character Designs

3.1. Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai (1991–1992, 2020–2022)

• Overview: Based on the Dragon Quest video game series, for which Toriyama designed characters and monsters.
• Significance:
  • Blends Toriyama’s fantasy designs with compelling storytelling.
  • The 2020 remake brought modern animation to a classic story.

3.2. Blue Dragon (2007–2008)

• Overview: Adapted from the Blue Dragon video game series, this anime showcases Toriyama’s character designs in a fantasy adventure.
• Significance:
  • Highlights Toriyama’s versatility in designing for different genres.

4. Special Projects and Spin-offs

4.1. Dragon Ball Heroes (2018–Present)

• Overview: A promotional anime based on the arcade game Dragon Ball Heroes, featuring alternate timelines and fan-favorite characters.
• Significance:
  • Includes characters and concepts from Dragon Ball, though not directly tied to the main canon.

4.2. Chrono Trigger (1995, OVA)

• Overview: While primarily a video game, Toriyama’s character designs were used in the Chrono Trigger animated cutscenes and promotional material.
• Significance:
  • Demonstrates Toriyama’s influence beyond traditional anime and manga.

5. Lesser-Known Anime Involvement

5.1. Pink: Water Bandit, Rain Bandit (1990)

• Overview: An anime adaptation of Toriyama’s one-shot manga Pink.
• Significance:
  • A fun, lighthearted story showcasing Toriyama’s humor and creativity.

5.2. Kennosuke-sama (1990)

• Overview: A short anime special based on Toriyama’s work.
• Significance:
  • Offers fans a glimpse into his storytelling outside of Dragon Ball.

6. The Legacy of Akira Toriyama’s Anime

6.1. Global Influence

• Toriyama’s anime adaptations have introduced millions to the worlds of manga and anime, influencing creators and audiences worldwide.

6.2. Timeless Appeal

• His works, from the humor of Dr. Slump to the action of Dragon Ball Z, continue to captivate new generations.

6.3. Expanding the Medium

• Through collaborations and character designs, Toriyama has expanded his artistic reach into gaming and other media.

Conclusion: A Master’s Contribution to Anime

Akira Toriyama’s anime adaptations and contributions to the medium have left an indelible mark on pop culture. From the lighthearted adventures of Dr. Slump to the epic battles of Dragon Ball, his works continue to inspire and entertain audiences around the globe.

The anime list associated with Toriyama is a testament to his creativity and storytelling brilliance, ensuring that his legacy as one of the greatest manga artists of all time remains firmly intact.

ライト

鳥山明さんの大ファン

鳥山明さんの作品をこよなく愛するドラゴンボールが好きな漫画オタクです。世の中のアニメ全般が好きで、クリエイターの皆様を応援しています。