The Best Dragon Ball Series to Watch

When it comes to the iconic "Dragon Ball" franchise, fans have a plethora of series to choose from, each offering its own unique charm and storylines. Whether you're a newcomer to the world of Dragon Ball or a seasoned fan, finding the best series to watch can be a daunting task. This guide will explore the different Dragon Ball series, comparing their merits and helping you decide which one is right for you.

1. Dragon Ball (1986-1989)

"Dragon Ball" is the original series that started it all. Created by Akira Toriyama, it introduces us to a young Son Goku and his adventures in search of the Dragon Balls, magical orbs that grant wishes when gathered.

Pros:

• Nostalgic Value: It establishes the foundation of the Dragon Ball universe.
• Character Development: Introduces many beloved characters such as Bulma, Krillin, and Master Roshi.
• Humor and Adventure: Features a blend of comedy and action with a focus on Goku’s early life and training.

Cons:

• Pacing: The series has a slower pace compared to its successors.
• Lack of Major Fights: Focuses more on adventure and less on intense battles.

2. Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996)

"Dragon Ball Z" is arguably the most famous installment in the Dragon Ball franchise. It continues the story of Son Goku, now an adult, and follows his battles against formidable foes like Frieza, Cell, and Majin Buu.

Pros:

• Epic Battles: Features some of the most iconic fights and transformations, including Super Saiyan.
• Character Growth: Deepens the stories of many characters and introduces new ones like Vegeta and Trunks.
• Cultural Impact: Has had a significant influence on anime and pop culture worldwide.

Cons:

• Filler Episodes: Includes filler content that can interrupt the main storyline.
• Length: The series is lengthy, which may be daunting for new viewers.

3. Dragon Ball GT (1996-1997)

"Dragon Ball GT" is a continuation of the Dragon Ball Z series, but it is not based on Akira Toriyama’s manga. It follows the adventures of Goku, who has been turned back into a child, as he searches for the Black Star Dragon Balls.

Pros:

• Unique Storyline: Offers a different narrative with a more exploratory approach.
• New Characters: Introduces characters like Pan and the villainous Baby.

Cons:

• Mixed Reception: Often considered inferior to Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Super by fans.
• Inconsistency: The tone and quality vary, and it lacks the cohesive storytelling of other series.

4. Dragon Ball Super (2015-2018)

"Dragon Ball Super" is a direct sequel to Dragon Ball Z and brings back Akira Toriyama’s involvement in the series. It explores new arcs, such as the Battle of Gods and Universe Survival Saga.

Pros:

• High-Quality Animation: Features improved animation and modern production values.
• New Transformations: Introduces new forms like Super Saiyan God and Ultra Instinct.
• Expansive Universe: Expands on the Dragon Ball universe with multiverse concepts.

Cons:

• Inconsistent Plot: Some arcs are better received than others, and the pacing can be uneven.
• Character Focus: Occasionally focuses too much on Goku and Vegeta at the expense of other characters.

5. Dragon Ball Kai (2009-2011)

"Dragon Ball Kai" is a remastered version of Dragon Ball Z with updated visuals and a streamlined storyline. It removes much of the filler content and offers a more focused experience.

Pros:

• Enhanced Visuals: Improved animation and remastered audio.
• Faster Pace: Reduced filler episodes and a more condensed storyline.

Cons:

• Less Character Development: Some of the depth from the original series is lost.
• Limited New Content: Primarily an updated version of Dragon Ball Z without significant new material.

6. Dragon Ball: Super Dragon Ball Heroes (2018-Present)

"Dragon Ball: Super Dragon Ball Heroes" is an anime adaptation of the Dragon Ball video game series. It features a non-canon story with various characters from the Dragon Ball universe.

Pros:

• Fan Service: Includes many characters and elements from the video games.
• Exciting Battles: Focuses on action-packed fights and unique scenarios.

Cons:

• Non-Canon: The story does not impact the main Dragon Ball continuity.
• Short Episodes: Each episode is relatively short and lacks depth.

Choosing the Best Series

Selecting the best Dragon Ball series to watch depends largely on what you're looking for:

• For Classic Appeal: Dragon Ball is ideal if you want to experience the origins of the series.
• For Iconic Fights: Dragon Ball Z is the go-to for classic battles and major story arcs.
• For New Concepts: Dragon Ball Super offers modern updates and new transformations.
• For A Different Take: Dragon Ball GT provides an alternative storyline, though it is divisive among fans.

Each series has its own strengths and can be enjoyed for different reasons. Whether you're revisiting old favorites or exploring new content, the Dragon Ball universe has something for every fan.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best Dragon Ball series to watch is subjective and depends on personal preference. Dragon Ball Z is often considered the most essential series for its significant impact on the franchise, while Dragon Ball Super provides a modern continuation with fresh content. Dragon Ball GT offers a unique take but is less popular, and Dragon Ball Kai serves as a refined version of Dragon Ball Z. For a non-canon, fan-service experience, Super Dragon Ball Heroes is an entertaining option. Enjoy exploring the vibrant and action-packed world of Dragon Ball!