How to watch Dragon Ball in order: The Dragon Ball series, a significant name in the anime universe, has grown into a complex franchise since its inception in 1986. The immense popularity of the series has resulted in an array of sequels and spinoffs, like Dragon Ball Z, Dragon Ball Super, and the latest addition, Super Dragon Ball Heroes. However, this vast pool of content can often leave newcomers and even some ardent fans wondering: “How to watch Dragon Ball in order?”
We’re here to illuminate your path through this epic anime journey.
Chronological Order: A Start-to-Finish Journey
Watching Dragon Ball in chronological order is an ideal approach for a sequential viewing experience based on the storyline’s timeline.
However, it’s important to note that this order does not distinguish between canon and non-canon series or movies, which might not sit well with some hardcore fans. Nevertheless, it ensures a holistic experience.
Here is the chronological order for your viewing pleasure:
- Dragon Ball
- Dragon Ball Z: Dead Zone (movie)
- Dragon Ball Z: episodes 1-86
- Dragon Ball Z: Bardock – The Father of Goku (TV Special)
- Dragon Ball Z: episodes 87-107
- Dragon Ball: Episode of Bardock (movie)
- Dragon Ball Z: The World’s Strongest (movie)
- Dragon Ball Z: The Tree of Might (movie)
- Dragon Ball Z: Lord Slug (movie)
- Dragon Ball Z: episodes 108-123
- Dragon Ball Z: The History of Trunks (TV Special)
- Dragon Ball Z: episodes 124 and 125
- Dragon Ball Z: Cooler’s Revenge (movie)
- Dragon Ball Z: episodes 126-146
- Dragon Ball Z: Super Android 13 (movie)
- Dragon Ball Z episodes 147-173
- Dragon Ball Z: The Return of Cooler (movie)
- Dragon Ball Z: Broly – The Legendary Super Saiyan (movie)
- Dragon Ball Z: episodes 174-194
- Dragon Ball Z: Bojack Unbound (movie)
- Dragon Ball Z: episodes 195-207
- Dragon Ball Z: Broly’s Second Coming (movie)
- Dragon Ball Z: episodes 208-250
- Dragon Ball Z: Bio-Broly (movie)
- Dragon Ball Z: episodes 251-253
- Dragon Ball Z: Fusion Reborn (movie)
- Dragon Ball Z: episodes 254-288
- Dragon Ball Z: Wrath of the Dragon (movie)
- Dragon Ball Z: episodes 289-291
- Dragon Ball GT: episodes 1-64
- Dragon Ball Super: episodes 1-3
- Dragon Ball Z: Battle of the Gods (movie)
- Dragon Ball Super: episodes 4-18
- Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection F (movie)
- Dragon Ball Super: episodes 19-131
- Dragon Ball Super: Broly (movie)
- Super Dragon Ball Heroes
- Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero
Canonical Order: Sticking to the Original Plot
For fans who wish to remain faithful to the original manga and stick to the content directly influenced by the creator, Akira Toriyama, the canonical order is the way to go. This approach primarily excludes Dragon Ball GT and most films.
Here is the list for fans who wish to watch Dragon Ball canonically:
- Dragon Ball: all episodes
- Dragon Ball Z or Kai: until the end of the Frieza Saga
- Dragon Ball Z: Bardock – The Father of Goku (TV Special)
- Dragon Ball Z: until the end of the Cell saga
- Dragon Ball Z: The History of Trunks (TV Special)
- Dragon Ball Z: all remaining episodes
- Dragon Ball Super
In conclusion, the choice of watching the Dragon Ball series in chronological or canonical order is subjective and depends on the viewer’s preference. Whether you want to fully immerse in the series’ vast universe or stay true to the original manga plot, this guide ensures that you make the most out of your Dragon Ball journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Z Kai?
Dragon Ball Z Kai is essentially a remastered version of Dragon Ball Z, featuring updated animation, new dialogue, and a reduction in ‘filler’ episodes for a more streamlined viewing experience.
What does ‘canon’ mean in the context of Dragon Ball?
‘Canon’ refers to the parts of the Dragon Ball series that follow the original manga plot and had direct input from the creator, Akira Toriyama.
Are all Dragon Ball movies considered non-canon?
Most movies are considered non-canon as they do not strictly follow the original manga plot. However, certain movies like ‘Battle of Gods’ and ‘Resurrection F’ are canon as they were developed with input from Akira Toriyama.