Dragon Ball Watch Order: A Complete Guide for New and Returning Fans

Dragon Ball Watch Order: A Complete Guide for New and Returning Fans

The Dragon Ball franchise is one of the most iconic and enduring in anime history, captivating audiences with its thrilling battles, heartfelt moments, and unforgettable characters. With numerous series, movies, and spin-offs, newcomers often wonder where to start and in what order to watch everything. Even seasoned fans might need clarification on how to revisit the series chronologically or based on the release timeline.

This article provides a detailed guide on the best watch order for Dragon Ball, catering to both first-time viewers and long-time enthusiasts.

1. Understanding the Dragon Ball Series

The Dragon Ball universe is divided into multiple parts:

• Dragon Ball (1986-1989): The original series focusing on Goku’s childhood and his early adventures.
• Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996): The most popular series, chronicling Goku’s adult years and battles against powerful enemies.
• Dragon Ball GT (1996-1997): A non-canon continuation that explores new adventures and transformations.
• Dragon Ball Super (2015-2018): The official sequel to Dragon Ball Z, expanding on the multiverse and introducing gods and angels.
• Dragon Ball Movies: A collection of feature films, some of which are standalone, while others tie into the series.

2. Release Order vs. Chronological Order

There are two main ways to watch Dragon Ball:

2.1 Release Order

This follows the order in which the series and movies were released, preserving the experience fans had over the years.

1. Dragon Ball
2. Dragon Ball Z
3. Dragon Ball Z Movies (Optional, placement varies)
4. Dragon Ball GT
5. Dragon Ball Super
6. Dragon Ball Super Movies (Battle of Gods, Resurrection ‘F’, Broly, Super Hero)

2.2 Chronological Order

This arranges the content based on the timeline of events in the Dragon Ball universe.

1. Dragon Ball
2. Dragon Ball Z
   • Include the Saiyan, Namek, Android, and Majin Buu Sagas.
3. Dragon Ball Super
   • Occurs between the defeat of Majin Buu and the end of Dragon Ball Z.
4. Dragon Ball Super: Broly and Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero (Movies)
5. Dragon Ball GT (Non-canon, but follows the timeline after Z if included).

3. Detailed Watch Order

3.1 For First-Time Viewers

• Start with Dragon Ball: Introduces Goku, Bulma, and the concept of the Dragon Balls.
• Watch Dragon Ball Z: Transition to the more action-heavy storyline, with iconic sagas like Frieza, Cell, and Buu.
• Skip or Watch Dragon Ball GT: Optional, as it is non-canon and not created by Akira Toriyama.
• Move to Dragon Ball Super: Adds modern animation and expands on the lore.

3.2 For Chronological Completionists

1. Dragon Ball (153 Episodes)
2. Dragon Ball Z: Bardock – The Father of Goku (Movie, Prequel to Z)
3. Dragon Ball Z
   • Saiyan Saga
   • Frieza Saga
   • Android Saga
   • Majin Buu Saga
4. Dragon Ball Super
   • Battle of Gods Arc
   • Resurrection ‘F’ Arc
   • Universe 6 Saga
   • Future Trunks Saga
   • Tournament of Power Saga
5. Dragon Ball Super: Broly (Movie)
6. Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero (Movie)
7. Dragon Ball GT (Optional, Non-Canon)

4. Key Considerations for Movies

4.1 Canon vs. Non-Canon

• Some movies, such as Battle of Gods and Resurrection ‘F’, are canon to the main story, while others like Dragon Ball Z: Cooler’s Revenge exist in alternate timelines.

4.2 Best Time to Watch Movies

• Movies that correspond to sagas in Dragon Ball Z or Dragon Ball Super can be watched after their respective arcs to avoid spoilers.

5. Tips for Watching Dragon Ball

5.1 Choose the Version

• Dragon Ball Z has two main versions:
  • The original run, which includes filler episodes.
  • Dragon Ball Z Kai, a remastered version that cuts filler and sticks closer to the manga.

5.2 Decide on Subs or Dubs

• Both subbed (Japanese audio with subtitles) and dubbed (English audio) versions are widely available, so you can choose based on preference.

5.3 Take Breaks

• With over 600 episodes and multiple movies, watching Dragon Ball can be overwhelming. Take breaks between sagas or arcs.

6. Frequently Asked Questions

6.1 Do I Need to Watch Dragon Ball Before Dragon Ball Z?

• While not mandatory, starting with Dragon Ball provides valuable context about Goku’s origins, the Dragon Balls, and key characters.

6.2 Is Dragon Ball GT Worth Watching?

• GT is divisive among fans but worth a watch if you’re curious about its unique transformations, like Super Saiyan 4.

6.3 Can I Start with Dragon Ball Super?

• It’s possible but not recommended. Watching Dragon Ball Z first provides important background on characters and events referenced in Super.

7. Recommended Watch Order for Different Audiences

7.1 Newcomers

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

7.2 Hardcore Fans

1. Chronological order, including movies and GT.

7.3 Casual Viewers

1. Start with Dragon Ball Z or Dragon Ball Super and return to Dragon Ball if interested in the backstory.

8. Conclusion: Enjoy the Dragon Ball Journey

Watching Dragon Ball in the right order can enhance your enjoyment of the franchise, whether you’re experiencing it for the first time or revisiting old favorites. Whether you choose release order for nostalgia or chronological order for clarity, the Dragon Ball saga promises epic battles, heartfelt moments, and unforgettable characters that continue to inspire fans around the world.

Pick your preferred path and let the adventure begin!

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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。