How to Watch Dragon Ball in Order: A Complete Viewing Guide

How to Watch Dragon Ball in Order: A Complete Viewing Guide

Dragon Ball is one of the most iconic and influential anime franchises in the world. With its rich history, compelling characters, and epic battles, it has captivated millions of fans globally. However, the series’ vast number of episodes, movies, and spin-offs can be daunting for newcomers trying to figure out the correct order in which to watch it. In this guide, we will break down the best way to watch Dragon Ball in chronological order to ensure you experience every major moment of the series in the right context.

1. Dragon Ball (1986-1989)

The journey begins with the original Dragon Ball series, which aired from 1986 to 1989. This series focuses on Goku’s childhood and his quest to find the Dragon Balls. It introduces key characters like Bulma, Master Roshi, and the iconic villain Emperor Pilaf. This is where the Dragon Ball universe starts, and it’s essential to start here to understand the foundation of the story.

• Number of Episodes: 153
• Storyline: Goku’s early adventures, his training with Master Roshi, and his battle against various foes.

What to Watch First:

• Dragon Ball (1986)

2. Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996)

After Dragon Ball, the story continues with Dragon Ball Z, which is probably the most well-known part of the franchise. Dragon Ball Z covers the adventures of an adult Goku as he faces powerful enemies like Frieza, Cell, and Majin Buu. It expands on the lore of the Saiyan race, introduces Super Saiyan transformations, and develops the relationships between characters. This series introduces the more action-heavy style and is a cornerstone of the Dragon Ball legacy.

• Number of Episodes: 291
• Storyline: The battle against intergalactic threats, the introduction of the Saiyan heritage, and intense fight sequences.

What to Watch Next:

• Dragon Ball Z (1989)

3. Dragon Ball GT (1996-1997)

Though not as highly regarded as Dragon Ball Z, Dragon Ball GT is still part of the Dragon Ball canon. This series, set after the events of Dragon Ball Z, features Goku being turned back into a child and embarking on a space adventure to recover the Black Star Dragon Balls. Dragon Ball GT explores Goku’s later years, though it isn’t as universally beloved as Z. However, for completionists and those who want to experience all of Dragon Ball, it’s worth watching.

• Number of Episodes: 64
• Storyline: Goku’s return to childhood, his search for the Black Star Dragon Balls, and his new adventures.

What to Watch After Z:

• Dragon Ball GT (1996)

4. Dragon Ball Kai (2009-2011)

Dragon Ball Kai is a remastered version of Dragon Ball Z, with updated visuals, remastered sound, and some filler episodes removed. It was created to mark the 20th anniversary of Dragon Ball Z and provides a faster, more streamlined viewing experience for those who are looking to revisit the Dragon Ball Z saga in its most polished form.

• Number of Episodes: 167
• Storyline: The same as Dragon Ball Z, but with updated animation and a more condensed pacing.

What to Watch if You Want a Refined Z Experience:

• Dragon Ball Kai (2009)

5. Dragon Ball Super (2015-2018, 2022)

Dragon Ball Super continues the story after the events of Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball GT (which is considered non-canon by Super). The series introduces new characters, such as Beerus, the God of Destruction, and expands the Dragon Ball universe with the concept of alternate universes and multiverses. Goku’s power continues to grow with the introduction of Super Saiyan God, Super Saiyan Blue, and Ultra Instinct transformations. The plot arcs include the Universe 6 Tournament, the Tournament of Power, and the battle against the villain Moro.

• Number of Episodes: 131 (as of now)
• Storyline: Goku’s adventures in the multiverse, his quest to become stronger, and his battles with god-like beings.

What to Watch After GT:

• Dragon Ball Super (2015)

6. Dragon Ball Movies and Specials

In addition to the main series, there are several Dragon Ball movies and specials that are often tied to the events of the TV series. These movies are typically non-canon, meaning they don’t directly affect the timeline of the main story. However, they often feature epic battles and fan-favorite moments that many Dragon Ball enthusiasts enjoy. Some of the more popular films include:

• Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods (2013)
• Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection ‘F’ (2015)
• Dragon Ball Super: Broly (2018)
• Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero (2022)

Each of these films fits into the timeline after the main series, so you can watch them after finishing the core TV series to enjoy bonus content.

Recommended Viewing Order:

1. Dragon Ball (1986)
2. Dragon Ball Z (1989)
3. Dragon Ball Kai (2009) (Optional for better visuals and pacing)
4. Dragon Ball GT (1996) (Optional, if you’re a completionist)
5. Dragon Ball Super (2015)
6. Dragon Ball Movies (As desired)

Conclusion

The Dragon Ball series is a rich and expansive universe with numerous stories and characters that have left a lasting impact on anime culture. Whether you’re starting from the very beginning with Dragon Ball or jumping straight into the action-packed Dragon Ball Z or Super, following this viewing guide will ensure you experience the series in the most coherent and enjoyable way possible. So grab your Dragon Balls, power up, and get ready for an adventure that will take you to the farthest reaches of the universe!

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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。