How to Watch All Dragon Ball Series in Order

The Dragon Ball franchise is a cornerstone of anime and manga, renowned for its compelling storylines, iconic characters, and epic battles. Watching the entire series can seem daunting given its vastness, but following a structured order helps to enhance the viewing experience and maintain continuity. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to watch all Dragon Ball series in the correct sequence.

1. Dragon Ball (1986-1989)

Dragon Ball marks the beginning of the epic saga. Created by Akira Toriyama, this series introduces Goku as a child and his early adventures. The story is inspired by the Chinese novel Journey to the West and covers Goku’s initial training and adventures, his first encounters with major characters, and the early battles that set the stage for the franchise.

Key Arcs:

• Emperor Pilaf Saga: Introduces the main characters and the Dragon Balls.
• Tournament Saga: Goku participates in the World Martial Arts Tournament.
• Piccolo Saga: Goku faces off against the demon Piccolo.

2. Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996)

Dragon Ball Z is the direct sequel to Dragon Ball, continuing the story with Goku as an adult. This series is famous for its high-stakes battles and the introduction of several new characters. The tone shifts towards more dramatic and intense conflicts.

Key Arcs:

• Saiyan Saga: Goku learns about his Saiyan heritage and battles Vegeta and Nappa.
• Frieza Saga: The Z Fighters confront the tyrant Frieza on Planet Namek.
• Cell Saga: The arrival of the androids and the threat of Cell.
• Majin Buu Saga: Goku and his allies face the ancient demon Majin Buu.

3. Dragon Ball GT (1996-1997)

Dragon Ball GT is not based on the original manga by Akira Toriyama but serves as a continuation of Dragon Ball Z. Set several years after the events of Z, GT explores new adventures and introduces new threats. The series is generally considered non-canon, but it adds to the Dragon Ball universe with its unique storylines.

Key Arcs:

• Black Star Dragon Ball Saga: Goku is turned back into a child and searches for the Black Star Dragon Balls.
• Baby Saga: The Tuffle Baby seeks revenge on the Saiyans.
• Super 17 Saga: A new android villain emerges.
• Shadow Dragon Saga: The corruption of the Dragon Balls leads to new dragon-based adversaries.

4. Dragon Ball Super (2015-2018)

Dragon Ball Super takes place after the events of Dragon Ball Z and introduces a new layer to the Dragon Ball universe with new gods, universes, and threats. It has been praised for its animation and revitalizing the franchise.

Key Arcs:

• Battle of Gods Saga: Goku encounters Beerus, the God of Destruction.
• Resurrection ‘F’ Saga: Frieza is resurrected and seeks revenge.
• Universe 6 Saga: A tournament between universes.
• Future Trunks Saga: Trunks returns from the future with a dire warning.
• Universe Survival Saga: The Tournament of Power pits multiple universes against each other.

5. Dragon Ball Super: Broly (2018)

Dragon Ball Super: Broly is a feature-length film that serves as a continuation of Dragon Ball Super. It reintroduces the legendary Saiyan warrior Broly, offering a new take on his character and expanding the lore.

6. Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero (2022)

Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero is another feature film that continues from where Dragon Ball Super left off. It focuses on new developments and characters, further expanding the Dragon Ball universe.

Watching Order Summary

To fully appreciate the Dragon Ball franchise, it is essential to follow the chronological order of the series:

1. Dragon Ball
2. Dragon Ball Z
3. Dragon Ball GT (optional, as it is non-canon)
4. Dragon Ball Super
5. Dragon Ball Super: Broly
6. Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero

Conclusion

Following this guide ensures a comprehensive viewing experience of the Dragon Ball franchise. From Goku’s early adventures to the cosmic battles of Dragon Ball Super, each series builds on the previous one, making the journey through the Dragon Ball universe both thrilling and coherent.