Dragon Ball Series in Order to Watch: A Complete Guide

The Dragon Ball franchise is a monumental cornerstone of anime history, captivating audiences worldwide with its thrilling battles, complex characters, and epic story arcs. Since its debut, Dragon Ball has evolved into a global phenomenon, influencing countless other series and genres. With multiple series, movies, and special episodes, the Dragon Ball universe can be daunting to navigate. This guide will walk you through the Dragon Ball series in the correct order, ensuring you experience Goku’s incredible journey from start to finish.

---

Dragon Ball series in Order:

1. Dragon Ball (1986-1989)

• Number of Episodes: 153

• Watch Order: Dragon Ball (Episodes 1-153)

  
  

Synopsis: The adventure begins with Dragon Ball, where we meet a young Goku, a boy with a mysterious tail and remarkable strength. Inspired by Akira Toriyama’s manga and the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West, the series introduces us to Goku’s quest to find the Dragon Balls, mystical orbs that grant wishes. Alongside the brilliant inventor Bulma, and later friends like Yamcha, Krillin, and Tien, Goku faces off against various villains and rivals.

Key Characters:

• Goku: The series’ protagonist, a kind-hearted Saiyan with extraordinary abilities and a strong sense of justice.

  
  

• Bulma: A brilliant scientist who begins as Goku's friend and adventure companion.

  
  

• Emperor Pilaf: The main antagonist of the early series, seeking to gather the Dragon Balls for his own nefarious purposes.

  
  

• Master Roshi: The wise and eccentric martial arts master who trains Goku and Krillin.

  
  

Significant Arcs and Episodes:

• Emperor Pilaf Saga: Goku's initial adventures and battles against Emperor Pilaf.

  
  

• Tournament Arcs: The series’ martial arts tournaments showcase Goku's growth and skills.

  
  

• Red Ribbon Army Saga: A crucial arc where Goku confronts the powerful Red Ribbon Army.

  
  

• King Piccolo Saga: Introduces one of the series’ most iconic villains, King Piccolo.

  
  

Impact: Dragon Ball laid the foundation for the entire franchise, introducing key characters, themes, and the Dragon Ball universe's lore. The series’ humor, action, and sense of adventure made it an instant classic and set the stage for the more intense battles and deeper storytelling to come.

---

2. Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996)

• Number of Episodes: 291

• Watch Order: Dragon Ball Z (Episodes 1-291)

  
  

Synopsis: Dragon Ball Z picks up five years after the events of Dragon Ball. Goku is now an adult, and the threats facing Earth and the universe are much greater. This series escalates the action and stakes, introducing powerful new villains and exploring deeper aspects of Goku’s Saiyan heritage.

Major Arcs:

• Saiyan Saga: Goku learns about his Saiyan origins and faces powerful foes like Raditz, Nappa, and Vegeta. This saga sets the stage for future conflicts and reveals the existence of other powerful warriors.

  
  

• Frieza Saga: One of the most famous arcs, where Goku and his friends travel to Planet Namek to stop the tyrant Frieza. This arc is renowned for Goku’s transformation into a Super Saiyan, a pivotal moment in the series.

  
  

• Cell Saga: Features the bio-engineered android Cell, who threatens humanity with his quest for perfection. This saga introduces Goku’s son, Gohan, who plays a crucial role in the final battle against Cell.

  
  

• Majin Buu Saga: The final major arc of Dragon Ball Z, focusing on the resurrection of the ancient evil, Majin Buu. This saga introduces new forms and challenges, culminating in an epic showdown.

  
  

Key Characters:

• Vegeta: The Saiyan prince and Goku’s rival, whose complex character arc includes both antagonism and eventual redemption.

  
  

• Frieza: One of the most iconic villains in anime history, whose tyranny and power drive the plot of the Frieza Saga.

  
  

• Cell: The bio-engineered android with a sinister plan to achieve perfection, posing a significant threat to the Z Fighters.

  
  

• Majin Buu: The ancient evil that challenges the Z Fighters in the final saga of Dragon Ball Z.

  
  

Significant Moments:

• Goku’s Super Saiyan Transformation: A defining moment in the series that marks a significant power increase for Goku and a turning point in the battle against Frieza.

  
  

• Gohan’s Cell Saga Moments: Gohan’s transformation into Super Saiyan 2 and his role in defeating Cell highlight the emotional and dramatic climax of the saga.

  
  

• Final Battle Against Majin Buu: The climactic battle that brings together all the characters for a final confrontation with the ancient evil.

  
  

Impact: Dragon Ball Z is widely credited with popularizing anime outside Japan and remains a cultural touchstone. Its epic battles, character development, and intense storylines solidified its place in anime history and influenced countless other series.

---

Related: Goku vs Naruto: Who Will Win? The Ultimate Battle of Power and Strategy!

---

3. Dragon Ball GT (1996-1997)

• Number of Episodes: 64

• Watch Order: Dragon Ball GT (Episodes 1-64)

  
  

Synopsis: Dragon Ball GT is a non-canon sequel to Dragon Ball Z, meaning it was not based on Akira Toriyama’s manga. Set several years after the events of Dragon Ball Z, Goku is transformed back into a child due to the Black Star Dragon Balls. The series follows his adventures with his granddaughter Pan and Trunks as they search for these Dragon Balls to prevent Earth’s destruction.

Major Arcs:

• Black Star Dragon Ball Saga: Goku’s transformation into a child and the quest to retrieve the Black Star Dragon Balls.

  
  

• Baby Saga: Introduces Baby, a parasitic villain seeking revenge against the Saiyans.

  
  

• Super Android 17 Saga: Features the return of Android 17, who merges with a new Android 17 to become a powerful threat.

  
  

• Shadow Dragon Saga: The final arc where the Dragon Balls’ misuse leads to the emergence of the Shadow Dragons.

  
  

Key Characters:

• Baby: The main antagonist of the Baby Saga, a powerful villain with a vendetta against the Saiyans.

  
  

• Super Android 17: A fusion of Android 17 and a new Android 17, posing a significant threat.

  
  

• The Shadow Dragons: Represent the consequences of the Dragon Balls’ overuse and misuse.

  
  

Significant Moments:

• Goku’s Transformation into Super Saiyan 4: A new transformation that showcases the series’ creativity and fan service.

  
  

• Final Battle Against the Shadow Dragons: The epic showdown that concludes the series and addresses the consequences of Dragon Ball usage.

  
  

Impact: Although Dragon Ball GT is often debated among fans, it introduced new concepts and transformations. It serves as a continuation of the story, providing closure for some characters while introducing new elements to the Dragon Ball universe.

---

4. Dragon Ball Z Kai (2009-2011; 2014-2015)

• Number of Episodes: 167

• Watch Order: Dragon Ball Z Kai (Episodes 1-98), Dragon Ball Z Kai: The Final Chapters (Episodes 99-167)

  
  

Synopsis: Dragon Ball Z Kai is a remastered version of Dragon Ball Z, created to celebrate the series’ 20th anniversary. It features updated animation, a re-recorded soundtrack, and a streamlined story that follows the manga more closely by removing filler episodes and adjusting the pacing.

Major Arcs:

• Saiyan Saga to Majin Buu Saga: The series follows the same major arcs as Dragon Ball Z, but with enhanced visuals and a more faithful adaptation to the manga.

  
  

Key Differences from Dragon Ball Z:

• Improved Animation: Dragon Ball Z Kai features updated animation quality and visual enhancements.

  
  

• Pacing and Filler Removal: The series is more concise, with filler episodes removed to focus on the main story.

  
  

• New Voice Recordings: The voice acting has been updated, with new recordings for the Japanese version.

  
  

Impact: Dragon Ball Z Kai provides a more streamlined and polished experience of Dragon Ball Z, making it an excellent choice for viewers who want to experience the story with improved visuals and pacing.

---

5. Dragon Ball Super (2015-2018)

• Number of Episodes: 131

• Watch Order: Dragon Ball Super (Episodes 1-131)

  
  

Synopsis: Dragon Ball Super is the first new, canon series in the Dragon Ball franchise in nearly two decades. It takes place after the events of the Majin Buu Saga in Dragon Ball Z, exploring the ten years leading up to the epilogue of Dragon Ball Z.

Major Arcs:

• Battle of Gods Saga: Goku encounters Beerus, the God of Destruction, and achieves the power of Super Saiyan God.

  
  

• Resurrection 'F' Saga: The tyrant Frieza is resurrected and seeks revenge against the Z Fighters.

  
  

• Universe 6 Saga: A tournament between Universe 7 and Universe 6 introduces new characters and universes.

  
  

• Future Trunks Saga: Explores an alternate future where Goku Black and Zamasu threaten the existence of all universes.

  
  

• Universe Survival Saga: Features the Tournament of Power, a multiverse tournament with the fate of universes at stake.

  
  

Key Characters:

• Beerus: The God of Destruction who introduces the concept of divine beings and power.

  
  

• Goku Black: A dark version of Goku from an alternate future with a sinister plan.

  
  

• Jiren: A powerful fighter from Universe 11 who challenges Goku and his allies in the Tournament of Power.

  
  

Significant Moments:

• Goku’s Ultra Instinct Form: A new and powerful transformation introduced during the Tournament of Power.

  
  

• The Tournament of Power: The climactic battle royale that brings together fighters from multiple universes.

  
  

Impact: Dragon Ball Super revitalized the franchise with new characters, transformations, and epic battles. It expanded the Dragon Ball universe, introducing new concepts and setting up future possibilities for the series.

---

6. Dragon Ball Super: Broly (2018)

• Runtime: 101 minutes

• Watch Order: After Dragon Ball Super (As it fits into the timeline of the series)

Synopsis: This film reintroduces the legendary Saiyan warrior Broly into the canon of the Dragon Ball universe. The story explores Broly’s origins and his battle against Goku and Vegeta.

Key Characters:

• Broly: A Saiyan with immense power, driven by a tragic past and an intense rivalry with Goku and Vegeta.

  
  

• Paragus: Broly’s father, who manipulates him and seeks revenge against the Saiyan race.

  
  

Significant Moments:

• Broly’s New Canon Origin: The film provides a fresh take on Broly’s backstory, integrating him into the main series’ continuity.

  
  

• Epic Battles: The film features high-intensity battles and showcases new transformations.

  
  

Impact: Dragon Ball Super: Broly received acclaim for its animation quality and exciting battles, successfully reintroducing Broly and expanding the lore of the Dragon Ball universe.

---

7. Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero (2022)

• Runtime: 99 minutes

• Watch Order: After Dragon Ball Super (As it fits into the timeline of the series)

Synopsis: The film follows Goku and Vegeta as they face a new threat from the Red Ribbon Army, now revived as a powerful new organization with advanced technology.

Key Characters:

• Gamma 1 and Gamma 2: New androids created by the revived Red Ribbon Army, who become central antagonists.

  
  

• Dr. Hedo: The scientist behind the new androids, whose motivations and actions drive the plot.

  
  

Significant Moments:

• New Villains and Allies: The film introduces new characters and challenges for Goku and his friends.

  
  

• High-Stakes Battles: Features intense battles that push the limits of Goku and Vegeta’s abilities.

  
  

Impact: Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero continues the franchise’s tradition of exciting action and character development, adding new dimensions to the Dragon Ball universe.

---

7. Dragon Ball Heroes (2018-Present)

Synopsis

Dragon Ball Heroes is a promotional anime series based on the popular Japanese arcade game, Super Dragon Ball Heroes. Unlike the rest of the franchise, Dragon Ball Heroes is non-canon, meaning it doesn't follow the official timeline or storyline established by Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Super. However, it is jam-packed with fan service, showcasing what-if scenarios, powerful alternate forms, and crossovers between various Dragon Ball universes.

The anime consists of short episodes, and due to its non-canon nature, it introduces characters and transformations that might not appear in the main timeline.

Key Characters

In Dragon Ball Heroes, you’ll encounter familiar faces as well as new, non-canon characters, including:

• Goku (Super Saiyan Blue and Super Saiyan 4 versions)

• Vegeta (Super Saiyan Blue and Super Saiyan 4 versions)

• Fu (A scientist who manipulates timelines)

• Cumber (An evil Saiyan)

• Hearts (The villain of the Universal Conflict Saga)

• Xeno Goku (A Time Patroller version of Goku)

• Xeno Vegeta (A Time Patroller version of Vegeta)

  
  

Significant Moments

• Super Saiyan 4 vs. Super Saiyan Blue: One of the fan-favorite moments in Dragon Ball Heroes is the clash between two of the most iconic forms of Goku and Vegeta. This battle, though short, was a dream come true for fans of both Dragon Ball GT and Dragon Ball Super.

  
  

• Cumber's Rampage: Cumber, an evil Saiyan, causes havoc with his overwhelming strength and dark nature. His battles with Goku and Vegeta showcase intense power levels.

  
  

• Hearts vs. Goku: Hearts, the main antagonist of the Universal Conflict Saga, delivers a tense showdown against Goku, showcasing his Universe Seed power.

  
  

• Fusion Frenzy: Fusions such as Vegito Super Saiyan 4 and Gogeta Super Saiyan Blue take place, with characters utilizing the Potara earrings and Fusion Dance to merge their powers.

  
  

Impact

Though Dragon Ball Heroes is not canon, it serves as an entertaining side experience for die-hard Dragon Ball fans. It doesn’t impact the main storyline, but it does provide a playground for wild battles and unique scenarios. The episodes are short, often under ten minutes, and focus on over-the-top action rather than deep storytelling.

The appeal of Dragon Ball Heroes lies in its creativity. Whether it's seeing two different Gokus fight side by side or witnessing characters with unexpected transformations, this series is all about having fun with the Dragon Ball universe. It's pure fan service, providing battles, transformations, and fusions that wouldn’t happen in the main storyline.

---

Dragon Ball DAIMA (Upcoming - October 2024)

Synopsis

Dragon Ball DAIMA is the latest upcoming installment in the Dragon Ball franchise, announced in 2023 to celebrate the series’ continued popularity. While details are still emerging, Dragon Ball DAIMA promises to introduce a new twist on the beloved story of Goku and his companions. The series is set to be released in 2024 and has already sparked tremendous excitement among fans.

The name "DAIMA" holds significant meaning, with "Dai" often translating to "big" or "great" in Japanese, while "Ma" can refer to "demon" or "evil." This suggests that the series may explore themes related to large-scale conflicts with demonic or supernatural elements.

Premise

While specific plot points are still under wraps, the promotional material for Dragon Ball DAIMA has teased a magical transformation that will revert several characters, including Goku and Vegeta, back to their younger forms. This change may be the result of some magical interference or new villain who manipulates the heroes.

This child-like transformation is reminiscent of Dragon Ball GT where Goku was turned into a child, but this time, it seems to affect multiple characters. The storyline is rumored to be packed with mystery and powerful new enemies from other dimensions or universes, with the possibility of revisiting classic themes from earlier Dragon Ball sagas in new and unexpected ways.

Visual Style

The early previews of Dragon Ball DAIMA have showcased a fresh, vibrant animation style that is slightly different from what fans have seen in Dragon Ball Super. Characters are drawn with more exaggerated expressions, which harken back to the earlier, light-hearted tone of Dragon Ball when Goku was a child. The action sequences promise to be as intense as ever, with stunning effects that continue to evolve the visual identity of the franchise.

Characters

In Dragon Ball DAIMA, fans can expect to see several familiar faces:

• Goku: The main protagonist, transformed into a child-like version of himself. While he may look younger, his power remains immense.

• Vegeta: Goku’s eternal rival, who also appears to be affected by the same transformation.

• Piccolo: Goku’s trusted ally, who may play a key role in uncovering the mystery behind their transformation.

• Bulma, Trunks, and Pan: The series is likely to feature more involvement from Goku’s family and friends as they confront a new threat.

  
  

Villains and Conflicts

While not much is known about the main antagonists, Dragon Ball DAIMA is expected to introduce powerful new enemies that could come from different realms, drawing inspiration from both demonic and mystical sources. The name “DAIMA” hints at the possibility of dark, evil forces or a demonic villain, which may be a fresh take on classic Dragon Ball themes.

Speculation also suggests that the heroes may have to travel to new, fantastical worlds, possibly even reuniting with characters from past sagas. The series could potentially explore a multiverse-like scenario, similar to the Tournament of Power in Dragon Ball Super.

Potential Themes

• Transformation and Growth: With the heroes being transformed into children, the series may explore themes of rediscovery and personal growth, possibly making the characters re-learn or adapt to their powers in new ways.

  
  

• Mysticism and Magic: If the transformations are magical in nature, Dragon Ball DAIMA could focus on magic-based powers, reminiscent of older enemies like Babidi or Dabura, further expanding the magical lore of the Dragon Ball universe.

  
  

• Family Bonds: Given the involvement of younger characters like Pan and Trunks, the series may delve deeper into family dynamics and how the characters adapt to their new situation together.

  
  

Impact and Anticipation

Dragon Ball DAIMA is one of the most highly anticipated series in recent Dragon Ball history. Fans are excited to see how this series will differentiate itself from the previous installments and how it will honor the legacy of the franchise while bringing fresh new ideas to the table.

The return to younger versions of Goku and Vegeta could allow for lighter, more humorous moments while still delivering the intense battles that fans crave. The unique premise also promises to keep long-time viewers engaged while potentially drawing in a younger audience.

---

Conclusion

The Dragon Ball franchise is a sprawling epic that has captured the hearts of millions. From Goku’s early adventures in Dragon Ball to the high-stakes battles of Dragon Ball Super, each series and film contributes to a rich and dynamic narrative. By following this guide, you can experience the full breadth of Dragon Ball’s story, understanding its characters, arcs, and transformations in the order that best showcases the evolution of this iconic series.

---

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ):

1. What is the recommended viewing order for the Dragon Ball series?

The recommended viewing order for the Dragon Ball series is as follows:

1. Dragon Ball (1986-1989) – Start with the original series that introduces Goku and the Dragon Balls.

2. Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996) – Continue with the sequel series that expands on Goku’s story and introduces powerful new villains.

3. Dragon Ball GT (1996-1997) – Watch this non-canon series next for a continuation of the story, although it's not essential.

4. Dragon Ball Z Kai (2009-2011; 2014-2015) – This is a remastered version of Dragon Ball Z with updated animation and a more faithful adaptation.

5. Dragon Ball Super (2015-2018) – Follow with this series for new adventures set after the events of Dragon Ball Z.

6. Dragon Ball Super: Broly (2018) – Watch this film for a canon continuation featuring the legendary Saiyan Broly.

7. Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero (2022) – Conclude with this film, which continues the story from Dragon Ball Super.

8. Dragon Ball Super Heroes- introduced many Characters across Dragon Ball Universe.

9. Dragon Ball Daima: Goku, Vegeta and everyone transformed into kids. this movie will be released in October 2024

   
   

2. Are Dragon Ball GT and Dragon Ball Z Kai essential to the main storyline?

Dragon Ball GT is not considered essential to the main storyline as it is not based on Akira Toriyama's manga and is regarded as non-canon. However, it provides additional adventures and character developments. Dragon Ball Z Kai is a remastered version of Dragon Ball Z with updated visuals and a more concise story. It is not essential if you have already seen Dragon Ball Z, but it offers a polished and streamlined experience.

3. How does Dragon Ball Super fit into the timeline?

Dragon Ball Super takes place after the events of Dragon Ball Z and fills the gap between the end of Dragon Ball Z and its epilogue. It explores new storylines, including the introduction of new villains, transformations, and the Tournament of Power. Dragon Ball Super continues to build on the legacy of Dragon Ball Z, offering new adventures and expanding the Dragon Ball universe.

4. Do I need to watch the movies to understand the Dragon Ball series?

While watching the movies is not strictly necessary to understand the main storyline, they provide additional context, character development, and exciting battles. For instance, Dragon Ball Super: Broly and Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero are canon films that tie into the main series and offer important developments and new characters. If you want a complete experience, watching these films is recommended.

5. What are the main differences between Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Z Kai?

The main differences between Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Z Kai are:

• Animation Quality: Dragon Ball Z Kai features updated animation and remastered visuals compared to the original Dragon Ball Z.

• Pacing: Dragon Ball Z Kai removes filler episodes and improves pacing to more closely follow the manga’s storyline.

• Voice Acting: The Japanese version of Dragon Ball Z Kai includes re-recorded voice acting, which differs from the original Dragon Ball Z voice cast.

• Soundtrack: Dragon Ball Z Kai has a new soundtrack and updated audio quality.

Dragon Ball Z Kai provides a more polished and streamlined version of Dragon Ball Z, making it a great choice for those seeking a more focused experience.