The writing isn't always top-notch, too many supporting characters become irrelevant, and the Boo saga drags on a bit too much. The ending isn't terrible but feels somewhat lacking, especially since Goku's final decision seems very out of character. (In the anime, it's even clearer that he essentially abandons Pan, despite her love for her granddad.)
Every aspect of Dragon Ball has been analyzed to death, so anyone who grew up with it knows it's not a perfect series. But it's iconic—and for good reason. DB's page layouts are famous for being simple yet brilliant and incredibly effective. Toriyama's art becomes very clean and expressive, reaching its peak in the Frieza saga, in my opinion. The pacing picks up after the first arc and rarely slows down, which is both good and bad. It's good because the story and action never stop moving, but it's also bad because it doesn't take the time it should at certain points, which the anime ironically addresses due to its slow pacing.
For those who have never watched or read Dragon Ball and want to experience it in its original and fastest form, they should definitely pick up the manga. I might recommend the original anime plus Dragon Ball Kai more, but that has its own set of issues. Either way, it's mostly a very straightforward but effective shonen that still deserves its place in any manga or anime collection today.
For the record, this is a mix of my anime reviews about Dragon Ball. Akira Toriyama had just finished his slapstick comedy series, Doctor Slump, and decided to create something more action-packed. The result was Dragon Ball, which initially began as a comedy but gradually shifted towards battles. It seems he was influenced by the trend set by Saint Seiya and slowly moved into that genre.
The series started with a magical atmosphere reminiscent of ancient China. After a dozen chapters, this theme gave way to a more sci-fi world where houses fit into portable capsules, huge monsters roam free, and anthropomorphic animals coexist with humans. It's a quirky and original setting with plenty of humor, making it an ideal JRPG world.
Initially, I found it challenging to get used to the characters' chibi looks—they appeared extremely short and cartoonish. However, their semi-funny, semi-battle frenzied attitudes made them tolerable. Later on, character variety became somewhat annoying as most characters were slight modifications of one another. A small change in hair or clothes, and they were presented as different people. This was especially true for the Super Saiyans, where it became hard to tell who was who after a while. Despite this, the artwork was excellent for its time, featuring dynamic and lively motions.
The dialogues didn't offer much beyond phrases like "I'm going to beat you!" and "Are you looking at my panties?" If you're seeking sophisticated dialogue, look elsewhere. While there are some classic shonen phrases that fit the genre well, Full Metal Alchemist handles it more intelligently. I’m torn between liking them for being stereotypically cheesy and finding them plain silly. The slapstick humor and constant wordplays work fine for the genre, but I’m not overly impressed.
The story began as a slapstick version of the famous Chinese fairy tale, Journey to the West. Many elements and characters are comical representations of those from the fairy tale. As the story progresses, these similarities fade, and it starts resembling other famous stories like Superman or Terminator. The plot revolves around Son Goku, a strong boy searching for magical spheres that grant wishes, participating in martial art tournaments, and fighting evil beings who want to rule the world (and later the galaxy).
Despite its simplicity, the story is presented in a non-predictable way. Various mysteries and side stories help distract from its predictability. Towards the end, things become quite complex and atmospheric, making the overall shallowness of the story seem trivial. So, I liked the story despite its simplicity. The world isn’t detailed or realistic, but it’s one of the most distinguished worlds ever created in anime. Some silly explanations occasionally give meaning to the wackiness.
However, the story has several issues:
- It undermines the gravity of pain and death, with injuries easily healed without permanent damage.
- It trivializes the afterlife and gods, portraying Heaven and Hell as amusement parks and gods as merely strong creatures.
- There's no realism in empowerment; characters inexplicably become millions of times stronger in a few months.
- It ignores the laws of physics, with energy beams causing explosions in mid-air and planets blowing up with no effects on surroundings.
- It recycles empowerment illusions, weakening previous tricks over time.
Despite these flaws, the story becomes increasingly grand-scaled and interesting as it progresses. Each villain introduces higher stakes, from Emperor Pilaf, a useless idiot wanting to rule the world, to Majin Boo, the strongest destroyer whose goal is to destroy the universe. Each arc adds complexity and drama, though resolutions often feel convenient and rely heavily on plot armor.
The cast is more interesting and colorful than that of Saint Seiya. Men are funny, dramatic, or scary, but all solve problems through violence. Women are mostly fan service, with no strong female fighters. Characters have simple backstories and zero development, focusing solely on getting older and stronger. They don’t mature or reason with enemies; they just fight.
Dragon Ball has memorable characters and a distinctive world. It hooks millions of people to shonen and remains better than most modern shonen due to its passion. One Piece stands out as its superior descendant. For fans of Akira Toriyama, check out Doctor Slump, Blue Dragon, Dragon Quest games, and Chrono Trigger. And don’t forget Journey to the West, the fairy tale Dragon Ball was based on.
SUGGESTION LIST
Famous Shounen to choose from:
- Saint Seiya
- Bleach
- Fist Of The North Star
- Naruto
- One Piece
Just started reading, I mean, I've reached volume 11, but our bookshops have already released up to volume 14 of this comic series! I'll have to download the next volumes from somewhere or order them from other sources XD
Love the story!!!! The characters are lovely, with a typically manly sense of humor. I adore the idea of a GIRL genius—Bulma. And of course, *sigh*—Son Goku!! The dream guy))) He embodies all the best values of a human!) And I love that he's a little dumb sometimes))))))
Dragon Ball holds a special place in my heart from childhood. It follows the adventures of a boy named Goku and his friends as they search for the seven magical Dragon Balls to have their wishes granted. Unlike many others, Goku isn't human; he's a Saiyan from an alien planet. This gives him extraordinary strength and makes him a prodigy in combat. My deep appreciation for this manga/anime stems from Akira Toriyama's masterful storytelling. He excels at conveying intricate details through just a few drawn scenes. In my view, fight scenes are particularly challenging to illustrate because artists must use manga to depict smooth and natural movements. Akira's work on these scenes is among the best I've ever seen. Furthermore, the world of Dragon Ball is incredibly captivating, filled with magical creatures and villains who each have fascinating backstories. Every character in Dragon Ball is endearing. Don't be intimidated by the 520 chapters of story; you'll find yourself increasingly engrossed as you read. If you haven't yet explored this globally renowned manga, you should definitely give it a try soon!
Story:
There's something magical about Dragon Ball. From its starting point searching for the Dragon Balls to the final fight to save the Universe, there's a genuine sense of adventure and progress that permeates this manga. It feels like I've traveled far, met countless characters, and endured so much despite only reading it on paper. Every interaction Goku has, whether with the master assassin Taopaipai or the mysterious Android 16, seems to have a special moment that sticks in my memory. Everything was so EXCITING! I had an absolute blast reading chapters featuring the many Budokai tournaments, horrifying villains who reveled in murder, and the ridiculous comedic antics of Kame-sennin.
What's especially remarkable is how the manga improves exponentially with each arc. Each new arc brings something fresh and ends with something unique and unpredictable. The moments are boisterous and extravagant but also carry a subtle level of intimacy in their characterization. The first time Goku transforms into a Super Saiyan is a prime example. The buildup to this revelation is brilliant, and when it happens, so much is conveyed about Goku’s thoughts without him saying a word. This happens frequently in Dragon Ball, showcasing Akira Toriyama's creative talent.
However, given the length of this manga, it's inevitable that there would be some issues, most notably in the final arc. While opinions may vary, the ending isn't as satisfying as it could have been. The Cell arc precedes the Majin Buu arc, and after the thrilling conclusion of the former, expectations were high for the latter. However, finishing the Majin Buu arc leaves you feeling somewhat hollow. Does it significantly impact my overall experience? Not entirely, but it does affect the grade. It dropped my opinion from a 10/10 to a 9/10 due to the climax of the Majin Buu arc. This is why I’m eager to see where Dragon Ball goes with the new movies and potentially with Dragon Ball Super (assuming it includes original arcs beyond the films).
All in all, Dragon Ball isn’t just an extravagant martial arts manga; it’s a compelling character narrative where everyone evolves subtly yet realistically. I’ve come to love Krillin as Earth’s strongest human, respect Piccolo as an amazing surrogate father and warrior, and admire Vegeta for his determination and pride that didn’t consume his life. There’s so much to love about Dragon Ball, and experiencing it firsthand is absolutely recommended.
Art:
The art is brilliant and amazing. Though backgrounds often become rubble and the artwork near the end gets a bit rough, the character designs, worlds, and 'animation' of each page and panel are outstanding. Each character has distinct traits, and each world has subtle yet recognizable locations. Most importantly, the pages look incredibly fluid. You will fall in love with how the manga reads. Every moment looks alive, every punch, kick, and jump appears to leap off the page. It’s truly incredible.
Character:
Each character undergoes subtle yet realistic growth over a long period. Spanning nearly a third of Goku’s life, from childhood to being a father of two, there’s significant development not just for Goku but for those around him. Change takes time, and at times, you wonder when characters will break old habits or finally become strong enough to fight back. All in due time.
Their character designs are impressive, and I’ve grown to love Akira Toriyama’s style. Initially, I found it too cartoony, but now I miss its uniqueness and recognizability. I wish more artists sought to find their own style rather than imitating others, especially in today’s era where everything looks the same (darn you, moe anime!).
Enjoyment:
I had a blast! I’m sad it’s over, but I’m SO EXCITED to dive into the current content. I’m also thrilled to experience it again through the anime adaptations. Although I’m a bit hesitant about the DBZ adaptation due to its length, I’m excited for DBZ Kai and especially Dragon Ball. I watched DBZ as a child but not much of Dragon Ball. And while GT is despised by many, I’m curious to watch it for more Dragon Ball content, despite its flaws.
I’m just hooked on Dragon Ball content. I want more. But can you blame me?
Dragon Ball manga serves as the source material for the renowned anime series Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z, containing essential elements that make these shows as beloved as they are. Often, when something in Dragon Ball Super doesn't make sense or includes questionable retcons, fans cite the original manga as a superior Dragon Ball experience. But is it really?
Story
Combining elements of both Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z, the manga has its own set of issues.
Dragon Ball initially started as an adventure story with influences from "Journey to the West," focusing on gathering wish-granting Dragon Balls, which would later backfire. The character dynamics were strong, with each character having their own motivations:
- Goku didn’t want to give Bulma his 4-Star Dragon Ball but joined her to explore the world.
- Bulma, a selfish teenager, used her sexuality and power over others to her advantage, treating Goku as her bodyguard.
- Oolong was a self-serving pig trying to survive, essentially held captive by Bulma and Goku.
- Yamcha, a bandit, befriended the group only to exploit them for the Dragon Balls.
Sadly, there are no epic fights typical of Dragon Ball in this early arc.
For a while, the story repeats:
- Tournament arcs
- Hunts for the Dragon Balls
Until the Saiyans arrive, shifting the narrative to:
- A new villain arrives
- Characters gain new transformations
- Villains attempt to destroy the planet but fail
- Villains are defeated
By the Frieza Saga, the author's laziness becomes apparent, with too many chapters dedicated to fights that aren't worth reading and random power-ups appearing out of nowhere. Power creep sets in, making storytelling unreasonable, as characters can inexplicably become stronger after losing battles or awakening hidden potentials. Eventually, Toriyama introduces villains seemingly out of thin air who can challenge the Z Fighters.
Goku achieves incredible feats throughout his journey:
- Training under Master Roshi, the strongest martial artist on Earth (who retires)
- Learning from Korin, the God of Martial Arts
- Destroying an entire army alone
- Drinking holy water to unlock hidden powers
- Defeating Demon King Piccolo, surpassing his old master
- Training with Kami, Earth’s guardian
- Beating Piccolo Jr., becoming the strongest being on Earth
- Battling alien races and transforming into a Super Saiyan
Despite these achievements, Toriyama introduces weak antagonists like robots from Goku's childhood or a never-before-mentioned demon king. By the Boo Saga, Dragon Ball turns into a parody of itself, introducing offspring characters that defy logic for cheap laughs.
If Dragon Ball had been split into different series, these shifts might have been excusable, but many early elements get abandoned. Characters like Master Roshi and the Kamehameha wave are forgotten, animal-human hybrids disappear, and transformation schools mentioned by Oolong and Puar are never revisited.
Characters
Most characters get sidelined after their introductory arcs, such as Tenshinhan, Chaotzu, Yamcha, Oolong, Puar, Lunch, etc. Roshi becomes obsolete due to power creep, and Bulma is reduced to a plot device. Female characters are poorly represented, either violent, ugly, or prizes for men to marry and have children with. Android 18, despite being a strong female character, is demoted to a damsel in distress.
Goku evolves from a bystander to the main protagonist, learning about the world and adapting. His naivety makes him a fun character to follow, but as an adult, he becomes more serious, training his son and mastering Super Saiyan forms. Despite occasional poor decisions, his intentions are always good.
Vegeta undergoes several character arcs, starting confident but gradually losing control. He gains depth through interactions with his son and eventually becomes one of the highlights of the Boo Saga. However, Toriyama ruins his development with special chapters and Dragon Ball Super.
Krillin, starting as an insecure kid, tricks Goku and becomes his best friend and a punching bag for villains. Despite his fear, he shows courage against powerful foes, making him a fan favorite.
Piccolo starts as Demon King, reincarnates as a different entity, and bonds with Gohan. His rushed development in the manga makes his first death feel cheap, and he often fails to succeed in his endeavors.
Gohan, intended as a secondary lead, shows high potential and rage boosts but lacks experience. He defeats Cell, showcasing his full power, but gets sidelined in the Boo Saga, wasting his potential.
Frieza, a beloved villain, commands fear and respect, pushing Goku to become Super Saiyan. However, he is ruined in subsequent arcs and media.
The Androids are forgettable antagonists, with Cell being the most interesting but ultimately disappointing. Mr. Satan provides comic relief and plays a crucial role in defeating Buu.
Bu initially appears as a mindless monster, gaining respect for life after meeting Mr. Satan. His evil side absorbs him, becoming the final villain. Super Buu is a parody of Cell, capable of regeneration and absorption but feels like a filler opponent.
Goten, Trunks, and Gotenks add little to the plot, serving mainly as parodies of their fathers' accomplishments.
Art
Toriyama uses panels effectively for fight scenes but eventually neglects detail. Night scenes become rare, and important elements like the Saiyan tail and moon phases are forgotten. Iconic moments, like the Super Saiyan transformation, lack impact compared to the anime.
Fights become repetitive, relying on power-ups rather than strategy. Many characters receive illogical power boosts, and training sequences are often skipped. Relationships, like Gohan and Piccolo’s bond, feel rushed, and secondary characters are neglected. The Boo Saga drags out the series without providing closure to Goku’s journey.
Overall
Dragon Ball hasn’t aged well. While the anime's filler content can be tedious, it still offers a better product by fleshing out characters. The manga is decent but not exceptional. It's fine, but not something to boast about.
To clarify a few things, I have never seen the anime, so I don't have any nostalgia or bias affecting my opinion.
Dragon Ball is arguably the most famous anime/manga in history and one of the most hyped. And it truly deserves all the recognition.
Dragon Ball sets the gold standard for Shonen series with its incredibly engaging battles and lovable characters that truly make the series special.
While it may not be the most consistent, and perhaps a 9/10 might be slightly generous, this series has made me feel sad, excited, and entertained whenever it intended to. You can't ask for much more than that.
Characters like Goku, Vegeta, Gohan, Chi-Chi, Bulma, Master Roshi, Piccolo, Videl, and many others are all very likeable.
Additionally, the Cell Saga is genuinely magnificent.
I adore the more lighthearted and comedic aspects of Dragonball. The period from when Goku starts training with Master Roshi up to the beginning of the King Piccolo arc is some of the finest manga out there, in my opinion. It's hilarious, engaging, well-paced, and beautifully illustrated.
During the King Piccolo arc, the dramatic and battle themes begin to dominate. As a shounen battle manga, Dragonball is decent. It was groundbreaking for its time, but I don't think it has aged particularly well. To be fair, everything up until the Cell arc was enjoyable in a nostalgic sense.
For those who have only watched the anime, I strongly recommend reading this manga. The artwork is timeless, and the comedy still holds up; it's an excellent read.
One of the earliest manga I can recall reading is Dragonball. I enjoyed watching the Americanized version of this TV show on Cartoon Network after school. My dad introduced me to anime at a young age, but it was Dragonball and Dragonball Z that truly got me into manga. For this reason, Dragonball and Dragonball Z hold a special place in my heart and are uniquely important to me.
As a kid, I favored DBZ because the villains looked cooler (though King Piccolo from Dragonball is undeniably badass), and the series was longer with more powerful characters. However, reflecting on it now, Dragonball resonates more deeply with me, and I have a greater appreciation for it as a manga. The battles in Dragonball seem more strategy-focused rather than being centered around power levels like in DBZ. There's also a stronger sense of character development for Goku in Dragonball that isn't as pronounced in DBZ. Dragonball was also my first introduction to shounen tournaments, which are incredibly awesome!
I love you, Dragonball, and I love you, Akira Toriyama!
I absolutely adore this manga. Initially, I read the Dragon Ball Z portion first and later went back to read the original Dragon Ball half. What struck me was how the first half had this playful, child-like tone compared to the more serious nature of Dragon Ball Z. Yet, the transition between the two is remarkably smooth.
In the first half, the story is seen almost entirely from the perspective of a super-powerful kid named Goku as he travels around with friends he meets along the way in search of seven magical balls that grant one wish when gathered together. Goku is naive, oblivious, cocky, childish, and a bit of a show-off. But it's these very flaws that make him so likable. Time and again, he recognizes his shortcomings and overcomes them effortlessly, like pebbles in his shoe. His youthful optimism is contagious, making you root for him to get back up and keep trying. The other characters are hilarious—Krillin, Roshi, Bulma, Lunch—they're always good for a laugh. Even the villains' motives or personalities are often petty (except for Piccolo), which adds to the humor. The art style is simple but fitting, and there are occasional fourth-wall-breaking jokes. The Dragon Ball half truly captures the essence of childhood and offers a refreshing change of pace.
In the Dragon Ball Z half, the tone becomes more serious as Goku matures, though he retains his innocence. With the arrival of new, more powerful, and far more dangerous villains, the stakes rise, and more innocent lives are at risk. Even though you know they could be brought back using the Dragon Balls (which become less significant as plot devices over time), the threat feels real because these villains can destroy planets with a mere flick of their fingers, unlike King Piccolo’s city-destroying plans. You feel genuine fear for the heroes who fight honorably and die multiple times, leaving you emotionally torn. Despite the seemingly happy ending, there's no definitive conclusion, as we see Goku flying off into another adventure in the acknowledgments.
Overall, this manga is fantastic. For those planning to read only certain parts, chapter 194 marks the transition point. While I may never get the chance to relive my childhood (as I'm a '90s girl who missed out due to parental censorship), I'm grateful to have experienced the original manga in all its glory.
I would like to preface this by stating that this will be my first review of many to come. I chose Dragon Ball because it is a series close to my heart, as it is for thousands, if not tens of thousands, of others. With that said, let's delve into one of the most celebrated works in manga and the artistic world at large.
NOTE: To be fair to the series, I am excluding Dragon Ball Super for now. This review focuses solely on Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z.
If you lived through the 90s, chances are you've tried to fire off a Kamehameha wave at least once, likely without success. This isn't just another "90s kid cliche"; it underscores how influential and defining the Dragon Ball franchise was for an entire generation.
You might be looking at the ratings and raising an eyebrow at the numbers, but let's examine this franchise objectively. The story is arguably the series' weakest point. Even for its time, it follows all the formulaic beats expected of a 'battle' manga, and it's riddled with numerous deus ex machina plot points that become increasingly exaggerated. Its most glaring flaw is the emphasis on power levels and strength, which often become meaningless after a single pivotal event. There's nothing inherently offensive about the story, but when viewed objectively, it's merely average. Imagine if the story had continued with the same tone from the first few volumes of Dragon Ball.
Are you doing alright? Calmed down? It's tough to hear something negative about Dragon Ball, but let's maintain our composure. It gets better.
Despite its weak story, Dragon Ball is still elevated by Akira Toriyama's genius art style and the diverse, interesting characters. Now, let's address this openly: every character exhibits standard Akira Toriyama face structure. Strip away their frames, clothes, and hair, and you're left with only three faces—male, female, and animal. However, each character is fully fleshed out with distinct features and personalities, making them easily identifiable.
The beautiful art doesn't end with the characters. The battles and action scenes are rendered in meticulous detail, perfectly conveying the intensity and emotion of each scene. Looking strictly at the manga, the true brilliance lies in the panel layout. While this is a technical aspect of the process, it's one of the most crucial yet underappreciated arts. Each panel seamlessly leads to the next, making it incredibly easy to visualize the scenes coming to life in your mind.
So, the art is terrific, and the story is mediocre. Where does the magic come from then? Why is this series so critically acclaimed and fondly remembered? The obvious answer is nostalgia. This series holds a special place in many hearts, and witnessing its greatness can transport you back to your playground days, trying to go Super Saiyan. If it were just nostalgia, it would fade into history like many others, but the reason it remains at the top is hard to describe. Perhaps it's the sincerity and honesty of the series. Dragon Ball knows exactly what it is and what it wants to be. That charm makes it accessible for new fans and cherished by old ones.
Popular Reviews
The writing isn't always top-notch, too many supporting characters become irrelevant, and the Boo saga drags on a bit too much. The ending isn't terrible but feels somewhat lacking, especially since Goku's final decision seems very out of character. (In the anime, it's even clearer that he essentially abandons Pan, despite her love for her granddad.)
Every aspect of Dragon Ball has been analyzed to death, so anyone who grew up with it knows it's not a perfect series. But it's iconic—and for good reason. DB's page layouts are famous for being simple yet brilliant and incredibly effective. Toriyama's art becomes very clean and expressive, reaching its peak in the Frieza saga, in my opinion. The pacing picks up after the first arc and rarely slows down, which is both good and bad. It's good because the story and action never stop moving, but it's also bad because it doesn't take the time it should at certain points, which the anime ironically addresses due to its slow pacing.
For those who have never watched or read Dragon Ball and want to experience it in its original and fastest form, they should definitely pick up the manga. I might recommend the original anime plus Dragon Ball Kai more, but that has its own set of issues. Either way, it's mostly a very straightforward but effective shonen that still deserves its place in any manga or anime collection today.
For the record, this is a mix of my anime reviews about Dragon Ball. Akira Toriyama had just finished his slapstick comedy series, Doctor Slump, and decided to create something more action-packed. The result was Dragon Ball, which initially began as a comedy but gradually shifted towards battles. It seems he was influenced by the trend set by Saint Seiya and slowly moved into that genre.
The series started with a magical atmosphere reminiscent of ancient China. After a dozen chapters, this theme gave way to a more sci-fi world where houses fit into portable capsules, huge monsters roam free, and anthropomorphic animals coexist with humans. It's a quirky and original setting with plenty of humor, making it an ideal JRPG world.
Initially, I found it challenging to get used to the characters' chibi looks—they appeared extremely short and cartoonish. However, their semi-funny, semi-battle frenzied attitudes made them tolerable. Later on, character variety became somewhat annoying as most characters were slight modifications of one another. A small change in hair or clothes, and they were presented as different people. This was especially true for the Super Saiyans, where it became hard to tell who was who after a while. Despite this, the artwork was excellent for its time, featuring dynamic and lively motions.
The dialogues didn't offer much beyond phrases like "I'm going to beat you!" and "Are you looking at my panties?" If you're seeking sophisticated dialogue, look elsewhere. While there are some classic shonen phrases that fit the genre well, Full Metal Alchemist handles it more intelligently. I’m torn between liking them for being stereotypically cheesy and finding them plain silly. The slapstick humor and constant wordplays work fine for the genre, but I’m not overly impressed.
The story began as a slapstick version of the famous Chinese fairy tale, Journey to the West. Many elements and characters are comical representations of those from the fairy tale. As the story progresses, these similarities fade, and it starts resembling other famous stories like Superman or Terminator. The plot revolves around Son Goku, a strong boy searching for magical spheres that grant wishes, participating in martial art tournaments, and fighting evil beings who want to rule the world (and later the galaxy).
Despite its simplicity, the story is presented in a non-predictable way. Various mysteries and side stories help distract from its predictability. Towards the end, things become quite complex and atmospheric, making the overall shallowness of the story seem trivial. So, I liked the story despite its simplicity. The world isn’t detailed or realistic, but it’s one of the most distinguished worlds ever created in anime. Some silly explanations occasionally give meaning to the wackiness.
However, the story has several issues: - It undermines the gravity of pain and death, with injuries easily healed without permanent damage. - It trivializes the afterlife and gods, portraying Heaven and Hell as amusement parks and gods as merely strong creatures. - There's no realism in empowerment; characters inexplicably become millions of times stronger in a few months. - It ignores the laws of physics, with energy beams causing explosions in mid-air and planets blowing up with no effects on surroundings. - It recycles empowerment illusions, weakening previous tricks over time.
Despite these flaws, the story becomes increasingly grand-scaled and interesting as it progresses. Each villain introduces higher stakes, from Emperor Pilaf, a useless idiot wanting to rule the world, to Majin Boo, the strongest destroyer whose goal is to destroy the universe. Each arc adds complexity and drama, though resolutions often feel convenient and rely heavily on plot armor.
The cast is more interesting and colorful than that of Saint Seiya. Men are funny, dramatic, or scary, but all solve problems through violence. Women are mostly fan service, with no strong female fighters. Characters have simple backstories and zero development, focusing solely on getting older and stronger. They don’t mature or reason with enemies; they just fight.
Dragon Ball has memorable characters and a distinctive world. It hooks millions of people to shonen and remains better than most modern shonen due to its passion. One Piece stands out as its superior descendant. For fans of Akira Toriyama, check out Doctor Slump, Blue Dragon, Dragon Quest games, and Chrono Trigger. And don’t forget Journey to the West, the fairy tale Dragon Ball was based on.
SUGGESTION LIST Famous Shounen to choose from: - Saint Seiya - Bleach - Fist Of The North Star - Naruto - One Piece
Story-
The story is well-developed and does everything to make a kid happy :D With awesome fighting, training, aura, comedies, and more :D
Art- The art is okay, but the ears seem a bit large to me :P
Character- Aliens and other elements were great :D The characters are well-developed with distinct personalities.
Enjoyment- I thoroughly enjoyed the manga from beginning to end :D
Overall- This is a really good manga that you would want to read :D It is funny and ACTION PACKED!!! You don't want to miss this old-school manga ;)
Dragon Ball holds a special place in my heart from childhood. It follows the adventures of a boy named Goku and his friends as they search for the seven magical Dragon Balls to have their wishes granted. Unlike many others, Goku isn't human; he's a Saiyan from an alien planet. This gives him extraordinary strength and makes him a prodigy in combat. My deep appreciation for this manga/anime stems from Akira Toriyama's masterful storytelling. He excels at conveying intricate details through just a few drawn scenes. In my view, fight scenes are particularly challenging to illustrate because artists must use manga to depict smooth and natural movements. Akira's work on these scenes is among the best I've ever seen. Furthermore, the world of Dragon Ball is incredibly captivating, filled with magical creatures and villains who each have fascinating backstories. Every character in Dragon Ball is endearing. Don't be intimidated by the 520 chapters of story; you'll find yourself increasingly engrossed as you read. If you haven't yet explored this globally renowned manga, you should definitely give it a try soon!
Story:
There's something magical about Dragon Ball. From its starting point searching for the Dragon Balls to the final fight to save the Universe, there's a genuine sense of adventure and progress that permeates this manga. It feels like I've traveled far, met countless characters, and endured so much despite only reading it on paper. Every interaction Goku has, whether with the master assassin Taopaipai or the mysterious Android 16, seems to have a special moment that sticks in my memory. Everything was so EXCITING! I had an absolute blast reading chapters featuring the many Budokai tournaments, horrifying villains who reveled in murder, and the ridiculous comedic antics of Kame-sennin.
What's especially remarkable is how the manga improves exponentially with each arc. Each new arc brings something fresh and ends with something unique and unpredictable. The moments are boisterous and extravagant but also carry a subtle level of intimacy in their characterization. The first time Goku transforms into a Super Saiyan is a prime example. The buildup to this revelation is brilliant, and when it happens, so much is conveyed about Goku’s thoughts without him saying a word. This happens frequently in Dragon Ball, showcasing Akira Toriyama's creative talent.
However, given the length of this manga, it's inevitable that there would be some issues, most notably in the final arc. While opinions may vary, the ending isn't as satisfying as it could have been. The Cell arc precedes the Majin Buu arc, and after the thrilling conclusion of the former, expectations were high for the latter. However, finishing the Majin Buu arc leaves you feeling somewhat hollow. Does it significantly impact my overall experience? Not entirely, but it does affect the grade. It dropped my opinion from a 10/10 to a 9/10 due to the climax of the Majin Buu arc. This is why I’m eager to see where Dragon Ball goes with the new movies and potentially with Dragon Ball Super (assuming it includes original arcs beyond the films).
All in all, Dragon Ball isn’t just an extravagant martial arts manga; it’s a compelling character narrative where everyone evolves subtly yet realistically. I’ve come to love Krillin as Earth’s strongest human, respect Piccolo as an amazing surrogate father and warrior, and admire Vegeta for his determination and pride that didn’t consume his life. There’s so much to love about Dragon Ball, and experiencing it firsthand is absolutely recommended.
Art:
The art is brilliant and amazing. Though backgrounds often become rubble and the artwork near the end gets a bit rough, the character designs, worlds, and 'animation' of each page and panel are outstanding. Each character has distinct traits, and each world has subtle yet recognizable locations. Most importantly, the pages look incredibly fluid. You will fall in love with how the manga reads. Every moment looks alive, every punch, kick, and jump appears to leap off the page. It’s truly incredible.
Character:
Each character undergoes subtle yet realistic growth over a long period. Spanning nearly a third of Goku’s life, from childhood to being a father of two, there’s significant development not just for Goku but for those around him. Change takes time, and at times, you wonder when characters will break old habits or finally become strong enough to fight back. All in due time.
Their character designs are impressive, and I’ve grown to love Akira Toriyama’s style. Initially, I found it too cartoony, but now I miss its uniqueness and recognizability. I wish more artists sought to find their own style rather than imitating others, especially in today’s era where everything looks the same (darn you, moe anime!).
Enjoyment:
I had a blast! I’m sad it’s over, but I’m SO EXCITED to dive into the current content. I’m also thrilled to experience it again through the anime adaptations. Although I’m a bit hesitant about the DBZ adaptation due to its length, I’m excited for DBZ Kai and especially Dragon Ball. I watched DBZ as a child but not much of Dragon Ball. And while GT is despised by many, I’m curious to watch it for more Dragon Ball content, despite its flaws.
I’m just hooked on Dragon Ball content. I want more. But can you blame me?
Dragon Ball manga serves as the source material for the renowned anime series Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z, containing essential elements that make these shows as beloved as they are. Often, when something in Dragon Ball Super doesn't make sense or includes questionable retcons, fans cite the original manga as a superior Dragon Ball experience. But is it really?
Story
Combining elements of both Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z, the manga has its own set of issues. Dragon Ball initially started as an adventure story with influences from "Journey to the West," focusing on gathering wish-granting Dragon Balls, which would later backfire. The character dynamics were strong, with each character having their own motivations: - Goku didn’t want to give Bulma his 4-Star Dragon Ball but joined her to explore the world. - Bulma, a selfish teenager, used her sexuality and power over others to her advantage, treating Goku as her bodyguard. - Oolong was a self-serving pig trying to survive, essentially held captive by Bulma and Goku. - Yamcha, a bandit, befriended the group only to exploit them for the Dragon Balls. Sadly, there are no epic fights typical of Dragon Ball in this early arc. For a while, the story repeats: - Tournament arcs - Hunts for the Dragon Balls Until the Saiyans arrive, shifting the narrative to: - A new villain arrives - Characters gain new transformations - Villains attempt to destroy the planet but fail - Villains are defeated By the Frieza Saga, the author's laziness becomes apparent, with too many chapters dedicated to fights that aren't worth reading and random power-ups appearing out of nowhere. Power creep sets in, making storytelling unreasonable, as characters can inexplicably become stronger after losing battles or awakening hidden potentials. Eventually, Toriyama introduces villains seemingly out of thin air who can challenge the Z Fighters. Goku achieves incredible feats throughout his journey: - Training under Master Roshi, the strongest martial artist on Earth (who retires) - Learning from Korin, the God of Martial Arts - Destroying an entire army alone - Drinking holy water to unlock hidden powers - Defeating Demon King Piccolo, surpassing his old master - Training with Kami, Earth’s guardian - Beating Piccolo Jr., becoming the strongest being on Earth - Battling alien races and transforming into a Super Saiyan Despite these achievements, Toriyama introduces weak antagonists like robots from Goku's childhood or a never-before-mentioned demon king. By the Boo Saga, Dragon Ball turns into a parody of itself, introducing offspring characters that defy logic for cheap laughs. If Dragon Ball had been split into different series, these shifts might have been excusable, but many early elements get abandoned. Characters like Master Roshi and the Kamehameha wave are forgotten, animal-human hybrids disappear, and transformation schools mentioned by Oolong and Puar are never revisited.Characters
Most characters get sidelined after their introductory arcs, such as Tenshinhan, Chaotzu, Yamcha, Oolong, Puar, Lunch, etc. Roshi becomes obsolete due to power creep, and Bulma is reduced to a plot device. Female characters are poorly represented, either violent, ugly, or prizes for men to marry and have children with. Android 18, despite being a strong female character, is demoted to a damsel in distress. Goku evolves from a bystander to the main protagonist, learning about the world and adapting. His naivety makes him a fun character to follow, but as an adult, he becomes more serious, training his son and mastering Super Saiyan forms. Despite occasional poor decisions, his intentions are always good. Vegeta undergoes several character arcs, starting confident but gradually losing control. He gains depth through interactions with his son and eventually becomes one of the highlights of the Boo Saga. However, Toriyama ruins his development with special chapters and Dragon Ball Super. Krillin, starting as an insecure kid, tricks Goku and becomes his best friend and a punching bag for villains. Despite his fear, he shows courage against powerful foes, making him a fan favorite. Piccolo starts as Demon King, reincarnates as a different entity, and bonds with Gohan. His rushed development in the manga makes his first death feel cheap, and he often fails to succeed in his endeavors. Gohan, intended as a secondary lead, shows high potential and rage boosts but lacks experience. He defeats Cell, showcasing his full power, but gets sidelined in the Boo Saga, wasting his potential. Frieza, a beloved villain, commands fear and respect, pushing Goku to become Super Saiyan. However, he is ruined in subsequent arcs and media. The Androids are forgettable antagonists, with Cell being the most interesting but ultimately disappointing. Mr. Satan provides comic relief and plays a crucial role in defeating Buu. Bu initially appears as a mindless monster, gaining respect for life after meeting Mr. Satan. His evil side absorbs him, becoming the final villain. Super Buu is a parody of Cell, capable of regeneration and absorption but feels like a filler opponent. Goten, Trunks, and Gotenks add little to the plot, serving mainly as parodies of their fathers' accomplishments.Art
Toriyama uses panels effectively for fight scenes but eventually neglects detail. Night scenes become rare, and important elements like the Saiyan tail and moon phases are forgotten. Iconic moments, like the Super Saiyan transformation, lack impact compared to the anime. Fights become repetitive, relying on power-ups rather than strategy. Many characters receive illogical power boosts, and training sequences are often skipped. Relationships, like Gohan and Piccolo’s bond, feel rushed, and secondary characters are neglected. The Boo Saga drags out the series without providing closure to Goku’s journey.Overall
Dragon Ball hasn’t aged well. While the anime's filler content can be tedious, it still offers a better product by fleshing out characters. The manga is decent but not exceptional. It's fine, but not something to boast about.Dragon Ball is arguably the most famous anime/manga in history and one of the most hyped. And it truly deserves all the recognition.
Dragon Ball sets the gold standard for Shonen series with its incredibly engaging battles and lovable characters that truly make the series special.
While it may not be the most consistent, and perhaps a 9/10 might be slightly generous, this series has made me feel sad, excited, and entertained whenever it intended to. You can't ask for much more than that.
Characters like Goku, Vegeta, Gohan, Chi-Chi, Bulma, Master Roshi, Piccolo, Videl, and many others are all very likeable.
Additionally, the Cell Saga is genuinely magnificent.
I adore the more lighthearted and comedic aspects of Dragonball. The period from when Goku starts training with Master Roshi up to the beginning of the King Piccolo arc is some of the finest manga out there, in my opinion. It's hilarious, engaging, well-paced, and beautifully illustrated.
During the King Piccolo arc, the dramatic and battle themes begin to dominate. As a shounen battle manga, Dragonball is decent. It was groundbreaking for its time, but I don't think it has aged particularly well. To be fair, everything up until the Cell arc was enjoyable in a nostalgic sense.
For those who have only watched the anime, I strongly recommend reading this manga. The artwork is timeless, and the comedy still holds up; it's an excellent read.
One of the earliest manga I can recall reading is Dragonball. I enjoyed watching the Americanized version of this TV show on Cartoon Network after school. My dad introduced me to anime at a young age, but it was Dragonball and Dragonball Z that truly got me into manga. For this reason, Dragonball and Dragonball Z hold a special place in my heart and are uniquely important to me.
As a kid, I favored DBZ because the villains looked cooler (though King Piccolo from Dragonball is undeniably badass), and the series was longer with more powerful characters. However, reflecting on it now, Dragonball resonates more deeply with me, and I have a greater appreciation for it as a manga. The battles in Dragonball seem more strategy-focused rather than being centered around power levels like in DBZ. There's also a stronger sense of character development for Goku in Dragonball that isn't as pronounced in DBZ. Dragonball was also my first introduction to shounen tournaments, which are incredibly awesome!
I love you, Dragonball, and I love you, Akira Toriyama!
I absolutely adore this manga. Initially, I read the Dragon Ball Z portion first and later went back to read the original Dragon Ball half. What struck me was how the first half had this playful, child-like tone compared to the more serious nature of Dragon Ball Z. Yet, the transition between the two is remarkably smooth.
In the first half, the story is seen almost entirely from the perspective of a super-powerful kid named Goku as he travels around with friends he meets along the way in search of seven magical balls that grant one wish when gathered together. Goku is naive, oblivious, cocky, childish, and a bit of a show-off. But it's these very flaws that make him so likable. Time and again, he recognizes his shortcomings and overcomes them effortlessly, like pebbles in his shoe. His youthful optimism is contagious, making you root for him to get back up and keep trying. The other characters are hilarious—Krillin, Roshi, Bulma, Lunch—they're always good for a laugh. Even the villains' motives or personalities are often petty (except for Piccolo), which adds to the humor. The art style is simple but fitting, and there are occasional fourth-wall-breaking jokes. The Dragon Ball half truly captures the essence of childhood and offers a refreshing change of pace.
In the Dragon Ball Z half, the tone becomes more serious as Goku matures, though he retains his innocence. With the arrival of new, more powerful, and far more dangerous villains, the stakes rise, and more innocent lives are at risk. Even though you know they could be brought back using the Dragon Balls (which become less significant as plot devices over time), the threat feels real because these villains can destroy planets with a mere flick of their fingers, unlike King Piccolo’s city-destroying plans. You feel genuine fear for the heroes who fight honorably and die multiple times, leaving you emotionally torn. Despite the seemingly happy ending, there's no definitive conclusion, as we see Goku flying off into another adventure in the acknowledgments.
Overall, this manga is fantastic. For those planning to read only certain parts, chapter 194 marks the transition point. While I may never get the chance to relive my childhood (as I'm a '90s girl who missed out due to parental censorship), I'm grateful to have experienced the original manga in all its glory.
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