The Best Order to Watch Dragon Ball: A Complete Guide

The Best Order to Watch Dragon Ball: A Complete Guide

With decades of storytelling, the Dragon Ball franchise is one of the most iconic and expansive anime universes ever created. For newcomers and returning fans alike, deciding the best order to watch the series can be challenging. With multiple series, movies, and spin-offs, understanding the timeline can enhance the viewing experience.

This guide outlines the best ways to watch Dragon Ball in order, ensuring you experience the story as intended.

Watching the Dragon Ball Franchise: Two Approaches

There are two main ways to watch the Dragon Ball series:

1. Chronological Order: Following the events of the story in sequence.
2. Release Order: Watching the series in the order it was released.

Both approaches have their benefits, and the choice depends on your preference for storytelling continuity versus the historical progression of the series.

Dragon Ball Series Overview

Before diving into the order, it’s helpful to understand the main parts of the franchise:

1. Dragon Ball (1986–1989)

• Episodes: 153
• Overview:
  • The original series follows a young Goku as he trains, participates in martial arts tournaments, and searches for the Dragon Balls.
  • Major villains include Emperor Pilaf, the Red Ribbon Army, and King Piccolo.

2. Dragon Ball Z (1989–1996)

• Episodes: 291
• Overview:
  • A continuation of Dragon Ball, this series follows Goku’s adult life as he faces threats like Saiyans, Frieza, Cell, and Majin Buu.
  • This is the most action-packed and iconic part of the series.

3. Dragon Ball GT (1996–1997)

• Episodes: 64
• Overview:
  • A non-canon sequel to Dragon Ball Z, GT explores new adventures, including Goku’s transformation into a child and the battle against the Shadow Dragons.

4. Dragon Ball Super (2015–2018)

• Episodes: 131
• Overview:
  • A canon continuation of Dragon Ball Z, introducing multiverse tournaments, god-level transformations, and new foes like Beerus, Zamasu, and Jiren.

5. Dragon Ball Heroes (2018–Present)

• Episodes: Ongoing (short promotional episodes)
• Overview:
  • A non-canon spin-off featuring alternate realities, fan-service battles, and new transformations.

Chronological Order to Watch Dragon Ball

If you want to follow the events of the story in sequence, here’s the chronological order:

1. Dragon Ball (Covers Goku’s childhood and early adventures)
2. Dragon Ball Z
   • Saiyan Saga
   • Frieza Saga
   • Android/Cell Saga
   • Majin Buu Saga
3. Dragon Ball Super
   • Battle of Gods Saga
   • Resurrection F Saga
   • Universe 6 Saga
   • Tournament of Power Saga
4. Dragon Ball GT (Non-canon sequel exploring alternate adventures)

Watching in Release Order

For those who prefer to experience the series as fans originally did, follow this order:

1. Dragon Ball
2. Dragon Ball Z
3. Dragon Ball GT
4. Dragon Ball Super

Incorporating Movies

Dragon Ball Movies

• Curse of the Blood Rubies
• Sleeping Princess in Devil’s Castle
• Mystical Adventure

Dragon Ball Z Movies

• Many of these are set in alternate timelines or loosely tie into the main series. Highlights include:
  • The Tree of Might
  • Cooler’s Revenge
  • Broly: The Legendary Super Saiyan

Dragon Ball Super Movies

• Canon films to watch:
  1. Battle of Gods
  2. Resurrection F
  3. Dragon Ball Super: Broly
  4. Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero

Special Episodes and OVAs

For completionists, consider adding these:

• Bardock: The Father of Goku
• The History of Trunks
• Plan to Eradicate the Saiyans
• Dragon Ball: Yo! Son Goku and His Friends Return!!

Should You Watch in Chronological or Release Order?

Chronological Order

• Best for understanding the story as it unfolds.
• Ideal for first-time viewers who want to avoid confusion.

Release Order

• Great for appreciating how the franchise evolved over time.
• Recommended for long-time fans revisiting the series.

Conclusion

Watching Dragon Ball in order—whether chronologically or by release—allows you to fully immerse yourself in the epic journey of Goku and his allies. With its rich storytelling, iconic characters, and unforgettable battles, the Dragon Ball franchise is a timeless classic that continues to captivate fans around the world.

No matter which order you choose, the experience will be an unforgettable adventure!

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