How to Watch Dragon Ball in Order: The Ultimate Guide for Fans
Watching Dragon Ball in the correct order can be tricky, with movies, specials, and various series to consider. This guide provides the optimal viewing order for both seasoned fans and newcomers, ensuring you experience the epic saga of Goku and his friends in the best possible way. We'll cover the chronological order, the release order, and finally, offer some recommendations for optimal enjoyment.
Chronological Order: Following the Storyline
This method prioritizes the narrative flow, presenting the story as it unfolds chronologically in the Dragon Ball universe. This is generally considered the best way to experience the story for the first time.
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Dragon Ball (1986-1989): Start with the very beginning! This series introduces Goku as a child and follows his adventures as he trains, makes friends, and participates in martial arts tournaments. This is where the foundations of the entire story are laid.
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Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996): This is where the action really heats up! Goku grows up and faces increasingly powerful foes, including Frieza, Cell, and Majin Buu. This arc significantly expands the universe and introduces many iconic characters and memorable battles.
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Dragon Ball GT (1996-1997): While not considered canon by many fans, Dragon Ball GT continues Goku's adventures after the events of Dragon Ball Z. It features a different art style and explores a new phase of Goku's life. You can decide whether or not to include this based on your preferences.
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Dragon Ball Super (2015-2018): This series picks up where Dragon Ball Z left off (mostly ignoring GT) and expands the Dragon Ball universe even further. This arc introduces new characters, new transformations, and new threats.
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Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero (2022): This movie is a direct continuation of the events in Dragon Ball Super, and should be watched after the completion of the TV series.
Release Order: The Original Viewing Experience
Experiencing the series in its original release order offers a glimpse into the evolution of the animation and story-telling techniques. However, note that this order doesn't perfectly reflect the chronological storyline.
- Dragon Ball
- Dragon Ball Z
- Dragon Ball GT
- Dragon Ball Super
- Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero
Recommendations for Optimal Enjoyment
While the chronological order is recommended for first-time viewers, consider these points for a more tailored experience:
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Movies and Specials: There are several Dragon Ball movies and specials. These are best watched after completing the relevant series (e.g., watch the Dragon Ball Z movies after finishing Dragon Ball Z). Many are non-canon, offering alternative storylines or "what-if" scenarios.
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Breaks Are Okay: The Dragon Ball saga is extensive. Take breaks between arcs if needed. This prevents burnout and allows you to fully appreciate each storyline.
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Focus on the Main Story: Don't get bogged down in every single filler episode. Many resources online highlight essential episodes to watch for a more concise experience, while still capturing the main story.
Conclusion: Embark on Your Dragon Ball Journey!
Regardless of the order you choose, prepare for an unforgettable journey filled with action, adventure, and unforgettable characters. Enjoy exploring the world of Dragon Ball! Remember to always consult online resources and fan communities for further details and discussions on the many intricacies of this extensive anime franchise.
