Dragon Ball stands as a cornerstone of modern fiction, transcending not only anime and manga but influencing the broader cultural landscape. It has captivated generations, playing a pivotal role in introducing anime to Western audiences and even serving as an official mascot during the Olympic Games. Few franchises have made such a profound impact as Dragon Ball, a phenomenon that continues to resonate widely. Nonetheless, in the early stages of its manga serialization, creator Akira Toriyama encountered challenges in engaging his audience.
It may be surprising to learn that Dragon Ball didn’t achieve immediate popularity. In its formative arcs, characterized by a vibrant, adventurous spirit, the narrative featured characters embarking on thrilling journeys through a fantastical world filled with peculiar creatures and advanced technology. At this stage, the series bore little resemblance to the action-packed saga it has since become. The turning point that defined its legacy was spurred by a simple remark from Toriyama’s editor: “Your protagonist is rather plain.”
One Comment Changed Goku Forever
Dragon Ball’s Editor Claimed Goku Was Plain
In response to this critique, Toriyama reflected, “That’s when Torishima-san told me, ‘Your protagonist is plain, that’s why it’s not popular’. This frustrated me, but it also sparked a realization.”Emphasizing Goku’s unwavering desire for strength, he introduced the World Martial Arts Tournament in the subsequent story arc. This strategic shift positioned Goku at the forefront, steering the manga’s narrative towards dynamic combat, which ultimately transformed Dragon Ball into a cornerstone of anime history.
Dragon Ball’s Shift Towards Action Cemented Its Legacy
Some of Anime and Manga’s Most Iconic Fights Come from Dragon Ball
With Goku’s central characteristic crystallized as an insatiable drive for improvement, Dragon Ball underwent a considerable transformation, embracing action and martial arts. The series progressed from the World Martial Arts Tournament into more intense sagas like King Piccolo and Piccolo Jr., effectively introducing powerful villains and meticulously crafted fight sequences. This marked a pivotal moment, attracting numerous fans and propelling Dragon Ball to the upper echelons of Shōnen Jump’s popularity.
The adaptation of this narrative arrived with Dragon Ball Z, which became a trailblazer for anime reaching Western television audiences in the late ’90s and early 2000s. This initial surge in visibility led to a significant boom in popularity outside Japan, establishing Goku as one of anime’s most recognizable characters worldwide. Today, the legacy of Dragon Ball remains unparalleled, with few series able to replicate its consistent innovation and high quality more than four decades after its inception.
Goku’s Latest Adventure Has Returned the Franchise to Its Roots
Dragon Ball Daima Is Packed With the Series’ Early Adventurous Spirit
In the latest installment, Dragon Ball Daima, which represents Toriyama’s concluding vision for the franchise, there is a nostalgic return to the adventurous essence reminiscent of the series’ origins. This new anime explores an enchanting world, embracing the same whimsical spirit that characterized the earliest chapters of Dragon Ball. If Goku had been an established character from the outset, it remains uncertain whether the series would have shifted to a greater emphasis on action. However, with each episode of Daima, it’s evident that Toriyama skillfully balanced both exploration and combat.
Despite its long history, Dragon Ball continues to be a dominant force in the anime and manga landscape, remaining immensely popular decades after its debut in Shōnen Jump. Although the future trajectory of the franchise appears uncertain following Toriyama’s passing in March 2024, the unwavering passion of the fanbase ensures that Dragon Ball will continue to thrive, backed by loyal supporters worldwide.
Source: Dragon Ball Daizenshuu 2 ( Translated by Kanzenshuu )
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