The Best Order to Watch Dragon Ball: A Comprehensive Guide

The Best Order to Watch Dragon Ball: A Comprehensive Guide

The Dragon Ball franchise is one of the most iconic and expansive anime series in history, spanning multiple shows, movies, and spin-offs. With so much content, it can be challenging to determine the best order to watch Dragon Ball. Should you follow the chronological storyline, release order, or focus on certain series? This guide will help you navigate the Dragon Ball universe effectively.

1. Chronological Order

Watching Dragon Ball chronologically allows you to experience the story as it unfolds in the timeline. This order is ideal for viewers who want to follow the narrative without jumping between series.

1.1 Start with the Original Dragon Ball

• Episodes: 1–153
• Focus: Goku’s childhood, his quest for the Dragon Balls, and his journey as a martial artist.
• Why: Introduces key characters, world-building, and themes foundational to the franchise.

1.2 Move to Dragon Ball Z

• Episodes: 1–291
• Focus: Goku’s adult adventures, the arrival of the Saiyans, and epic battles with Frieza, Cell, and Majin Buu.
• Why: Expands the universe and introduces iconic transformations like Super Saiyan.

1.3 Follow with Dragon Ball Super

• Episodes: 1–131
• Focus: Explores the multiverse, introduces gods of destruction, and features Goku’s transformation into Ultra Instinct.
• Why: Continuation of Dragon Ball Z that adds modern elements to the saga.

1.4 Add Dragon Ball GT (Optional)

• Episodes: 1–64
• Focus: Goku’s adventures as a child (again), with the introduction of the Black Star Dragon Balls and Super Saiyan 4.
• Why: Non-canon but offers unique concepts and fan-favorite moments.

1.5 Movies

Incorporate movies where they fit into the timeline:

• Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies (during the original Dragon Ball).
• Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods and Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection F (during Dragon Ball Super).

2. Release Order

If you want to experience Dragon Ball as fans did when it first aired, follow the release order.

1. Dragon Ball (1986–1989): The series that started it all, featuring Goku’s childhood and early adventures.
2. Dragon Ball Z (1989–1996): Introduces high-stakes battles and Goku’s transformation into Earth’s ultimate protector.
3. Dragon Ball GT (1996–1997): A divisive non-canon sequel with unique storylines.
4. Dragon Ball Super (2015–2018): A modern continuation of Dragon Ball Z.

3. Simplified Order for Beginners

For those new to the franchise, this order provides a streamlined introduction:

1. Dragon Ball Z: Jump straight into the action with this fan-favorite series.
2. Dragon Ball Super: Continue with the modern sequel to see new transformations and multiverse battles.
3. Dragon Ball: Watch the original series to explore Goku’s backstory and early adventures.
4. Dragon Ball GT: Only if you’re curious about its unique take on the franchise.

4. Movies and Special Content

4.1 Canon Movies

Some movies directly tie into the main story, especially in Dragon Ball Super:

• Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods
• Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection F
• Dragon Ball Super: Broly

4.2 Non-Canon Movies

These movies are standalone or alternate retellings:

• Dragon Ball Z: The Tree of Might
• Dragon Ball Z: Cooler’s Revenge
• Dragon Ball Z: Broly – The Legendary Super Saiyan

4.3 TV Specials

• Bardock: The Father of Goku (explores Goku’s Saiyan heritage).
• The History of Trunks (delves into the alternate future timeline).

5. Should You Watch Dragon Ball Kai?

Dragon Ball Kai is a remastered version of Dragon Ball Z, with updated visuals and removed filler content.

• Pros: Faster-paced and focuses on the main story.
• Cons: Lacks some of the charm and additional content of the original.
• Recommended for viewers who want to quickly experience Dragon Ball Z.

6. Viewing Order with Movies Included

Here’s a comprehensive chronological order, including movies:

1. Dragon Ball
2. Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies (movie).
3. Dragon Ball Z
   • Include movies like Dead Zone and Cooler’s Revenge where appropriate.
4. Dragon Ball Super
   • Include Battle of Gods and Broly.
5. Dragon Ball GT

7. Episode Guide for Canon Content

For viewers who want to avoid filler episodes:

• Use guides like those provided by Dragon Ball Canon Watchlists to focus on episodes essential to the main story.

Conclusion

The best order to watch Dragon Ball depends on your preferences:

• Chronological Order: Ideal for story continuity.
• Release Order: For the nostalgic experience of how it aired.
• Simplified Order: Perfect for newcomers to dive into the action.

No matter how you choose to watch, the Dragon Ball franchise promises an unforgettable journey through epic battles, heartfelt moments, and the enduring adventures of Goku and his friends.

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