Dragon Ball is a vast universe with numerous series, movies, and specials, making it tricky for fans to know where to begin. For collectors and enthusiasts, watching Dragon Ball in chronological order adds another layer of enjoyment, as it lets viewers follow the story as it unfolds. There are many iterations of Dragon Ball, starting with the original series and spanning across Dragon Ball Z, Dragon Ball GT, and Dragon Ball Super, all filled with unforgettable moments. This guide will cover the most effective way to watch Dragon Ball in chronological order to make sure no episode or movie is missed.
Dragon Ball Viewing Order Explained
When diving into the world of Dragon Ball, it’s crucial to follow a consistent order to fully appreciate the character development and story arcs. For example, many fans, after years of watching the series in broadcast order, often return to rewatch it in the actual chronological order for a new perspective. The key is to start from the original Dragon Ball series and proceed in a way that aligns with the timeline of the events, not necessarily the production dates.
- Begin with Dragon Ball (1986-1989), which introduces Goku as a child and follows his early adventures.
- Continue with Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996), where Goku becomes an adult and faces powerful enemies like Frieza and Majin Buu.
- Watch the Dragon Ball Z movies and specials, slotting them in between appropriate episodes based on timelines.
Why Chronological Order Matters in Dragon Ball
Watching Dragon Ball in chronological order offers a deeper understanding of the narrative. Fans who follow this path often appreciate how earlier story elements foreshadow later plot twists, creating a more coherent viewing experience. For instance, in Dragon Ball Z, there are multiple references to events that took place in Goku’s childhood, and these resonate more deeply if the original Dragon Ball series is viewed first. While it’s tempting to jump into the action of Dragon Ball Z first, starting from the beginning is recommended.
- The original series builds essential background for Goku’s relationships, such as with Bulma and Krillin.
- Critical events in the Dragon Ball Z saga, like Goku’s transformations, gain additional meaning when seen after the foundation laid in Dragon Ball.
- Knowing the order prevents confusion with timelines and filler episodes, especially in Dragon Ball Z.
The Complete Chronological Viewing Guide
Watching Dragon Ball in chronological order requires careful attention to the timeline of each series and movie, ensuring that the plot flows naturally. Since Dragon Ball spans over several decades of content, the events in the story do not always align with the release dates. To fully experience Goku’s journey and the adventures of the Z Fighters, follow this detailed step-by-step guide for the best chronological viewing order.
1. Start with Dragon Ball (1986–1989)
The original Dragon Ball series is the foundation of the entire franchise, introducing Goku as a young boy and setting the stage for the world of martial arts, powerful enemies, and mystical dragon balls. It covers Goku’s upbringing and his encounters with Bulma, Master Roshi, and other key characters. Watching this first is crucial, as it lays the groundwork for Goku’s personality and growth as a warrior.
- This series contains 153 episodes, with Goku starting his adventure to gather the Dragon Balls.
- Major story arcs include the Emperor Pilaf Saga, the Red Ribbon Army Saga, and the King Piccolo Saga.
- Important characters like Yamcha, Krillin, and Tien are introduced, establishing bonds that carry into later series.
Watch after Dragon Ball:
- Movie 1: Curse of the Blood Rubies (Alternate retelling of the early episodes of Dragon Ball).
- Movie 2: Sleeping Princess in Devil’s Castle (Takes place after the first tournament in Dragon Ball).
- Movie 3: Mystical Adventure (An alternate version of events during the Tien Shinhan Saga in Dragon Ball).
2. Proceed to Dragon Ball Z (1989–1996)
Dragon Ball Z picks up several years after the end of Dragon Ball, showcasing Goku’s adult life and the arrival of new, more powerful threats. In Dragon Ball Z, Goku faces iconic enemies like Frieza, Cell, and Majin Buu, while also uncovering his Saiyan heritage. This series is the most well-known and action-packed of the franchise.
- Saiyan Saga: Start with the battle against Raditz, followed by Goku’s training for the fight against Vegeta and Nappa.
Watch after the Saiyan Saga:
- Movie 1: Dead Zone (Takes place before the arrival of Raditz, but it fits well here as a prelude to Dragon Ball Z).
- Namek and Frieza Saga: This arc follows Goku and his friends as they search for the Namekian Dragon Balls, eventually leading to Goku’s legendary transformation into a Super Saiyan to defeat Frieza.
Watch during the Frieza Saga:
- Movie 2: The World’s Strongest (Fits best after Goku’s recovery from his first battle with Vegeta).
- Movie 3: The Tree of Might (Set after the battle with Vegeta, before heading to Namek).
- Movie 4: Lord Slug (An alternate story set during Goku’s time as a Super Saiyan).
- Android and Cell Saga: After the defeat of Frieza, the Z Fighters are faced with the arrival of the androids, culminating in the ultimate showdown between Gohan and Cell.
Watch after the Cell Saga:
- Movie 5: Cooler’s Revenge (Takes place after the battle with Frieza and can be watched before or after the Android Saga).
- Movie 6: The Return of Cooler (Fits well after Goku becomes a Super Saiyan).
- Movie 7: Super Android 13! (Takes place during the Android Saga but is considered non-canon).
- Movie 8: Broly – The Legendary Super Saiyan (Fits well after Gohan’s transformation into Super Saiyan and before the Cell Games).
- Movie 9: Bojack Unbound (Occurs after the Cell Games, with Gohan as the main protagonist).
- Majin Buu Saga: The final saga of Dragon Ball Z introduces the chaotic villain Majin Buu, leading to the series’ epic conclusion where Goku and his friends save Earth once again.
Watch during the Majin Buu Saga:
- Movie 10: Broly – Second Coming (Set after the Cell Games and before the final battle with Majin Buu).
- Movie 11: Bio-Broly (Fits between episodes of the Majin Buu Saga but isn’t canon).
- Movie 12: Fusion Reborn (Takes place after Goku and Vegeta fuse into Vegito during the Buu Saga).
- Movie 13: Wrath of the Dragon (Takes place after the defeat of Kid Buu, wrapping up the Z era).
3. Watch Dragon Ball Z TV Specials
The TV specials fit in with certain arcs of Dragon Ball Z, providing extra background and context for major characters.
- Bardock: The Father of Goku should be watched after the Saiyan Saga. It gives insight into Goku’s origins and Bardock’s last stand against Frieza.
- The History of Trunks fits between the Android Saga and Majin Buu Saga. It explores the future timeline where Goku and the other Z Fighters have died, and Trunks becomes Earth’s last hope.
4. Move to Dragon Ball Super (2015–2018)
Dragon Ball Super takes place after the defeat of Majin Buu and builds upon the foundations laid by Dragon Ball Z. It introduces new powerful entities like the gods of destruction, multiverses, and brings back fan-favorite characters. The series also delves into Goku and Vegeta’s further evolution as Saiyan warriors.
- Battle of Gods Arc: Goku’s encounter with Beerus, the God of Destruction, leads to his transformation into Super Saiyan God.
Watch during the Battle of Gods Arc:
- Movie 14: Battle of Gods (This movie is recapped in the series but adds extra details).
- Resurrection F Arc: Frieza is resurrected and returns stronger than ever, forcing Goku and Vegeta to step up their game.
Watch during the Resurrection F Arc:
- Movie 15: Resurrection F (Like Battle of Gods, the movie version provides extra context).
- Universe 6 Saga: Goku and his friends participate in a tournament against warriors from another universe, which sets the stage for even more multiverse battles.
- Future Trunks Saga: The series delves into an alternate future where Goku Black wreaks havoc, leading to dramatic battles across timelines.
- Tournament of Power Saga: The final arc of Dragon Ball Super, where Goku and warriors from Universe 7 fight for survival against the best fighters from all other universes.
dragon ball super characters
5. Watch the Dragon Ball Super Movies
Two Dragon Ball Super movies play a key role in advancing the story beyond the TV series. These films add depth to the lore and offer exciting, high-stakes battles:
- Dragon Ball Super: Broly (2018) should be watched after the Tournament of Power arc. It introduces a new version of Broly, now part of the official canon, and reveals more about the Saiyan race.
- Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero (2022) can be viewed afterward, adding new character developments and bringing Gohan and Piccolo back into the spotlight.
6. Explore Dragon Ball Daima (Coming 2024)
Dragon Ball Daima is the latest entry in the Dragon Ball franchise, set to release in 2024. While not much is currently known about the specific timeline placement, it’s expected to continue the story with a unique premise involving Goku and other characters being reverted to childlike forms. Fans should keep an eye out for where Daima fits into the greater Dragon Ball universe, potentially after Super.
7. Dive into Super Dragon Ball Heroes (2018–Present)
Super Dragon Ball Heroes is a promotional anime based on the arcade game of the same name. While it isn’t canon to the main Dragon Ball timeline, it explores alternate universes, time travel, and even “what if” scenarios. This series is best viewed after finishing Dragon Ball Super, as it delves into over-the-top battles and transformations.
- Watch Super Dragon Ball Heroes for an exploration of the multiverse, featuring epic battles against characters like Goku Black and Zamasu from alternate timelines.
- This series introduces new transformations, such as Super Saiyan 4 Vegito, and unique storylines not present in the main canon.
8. End with Dragon Ball GT (1996–1997)
Although Dragon Ball GT is not part of the official Dragon Ball canon, it offers a conclusion to Goku’s story from a different perspective. In this series, Goku is transformed back into a child and embarks on new adventures that take him across the universe. It features unique transformations like Super Saiyan 4 and explores alternate ideas for Goku’s fate.
- The Baby Saga introduces a new villain, Baby, who seeks revenge on the Saiyans.
- The Super 17 Saga involves the return of Android 17, who becomes much more powerful.
- The Shadow Dragon Saga serves as the series finale, where Goku battles seven powerful dragons born from the overuse of the Dragon Balls.
Why Watching Dragon Ball in Chronological Order is Rewarding
Fans who commit to watching Dragon Ball in its proper order often gain a richer and more complete understanding of character arcs, especially Goku’s growth. With Dragon Ball spanning decades, its characters evolve dramatically. The payoff for watching in order is worth it, as it adds clarity to major events, from Goku’s Saiyan origins to the epic battles against gods and universal threats. Missing out on these transitions could leave viewers confused, especially with Dragon Ball Super’s complicated multiverse.
- Character growth is more evident, such as Vegeta’s transformation from a villain to a hero.
- Filler episodes in Dragon Ball Z can be skipped, ensuring a more streamlined experience.
- Watching in this order allows for a greater emotional payoff when it comes to key moments, like Gohan’s battle against Cell.
Key Takeaways: How to Watch Dragon Ball in Chronological Order
Following the correct order for Dragon Ball ensures a seamless and enjoyable viewing experience, preserving the narrative flow and highlighting character growth. Watching the shows and movies in order enhances appreciation for the storyline, allowing viewers to experience the intricate connections between different Dragon Ball installments.
- Start with Dragon Ball and continue through Dragon Ball Z before watching the movies.
- Integrate the newer films like Battle of Gods and Resurrection F before starting Dragon Ball Super.
- Finish with Dragon Ball GT to explore an alternate continuation of Goku’s journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Should I skip Dragon Ball GT?
While Dragon Ball GT is not part of the official canon, many fans enjoy it as an alternate continuation of the story. It offers interesting new concepts, like the transformation into Super Saiyan 4.
2. Are the Dragon Ball Z movies necessary?
The movies often feature side stories, and while they aren’t crucial to the main plot, they add fun and exciting battles. Some, like Battle of Gods, are directly tied to the story.
3. Can I start with Dragon Ball Super instead of Dragon Ball Z?
It’s not recommended, as Dragon Ball Super builds on characters and events from Dragon Ball Z. Important plot points would be missed without that context.
4. How many episodes of Dragon Ball are there?
Including all series, there are over 800 episodes, spanning Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z, Dragon Ball GT, and Dragon Ball Super. Watching them all in order is a long, but rewarding journey.
5. What’s the best way to watch Dragon Ball without filler episodes?
There are guides available that outline which episodes are filler in Dragon Ball Z. Alternatively, you can watch Dragon Ball Z Kai, which removes most of the filler and focuses on the main story.
By watching Dragon Ball in its chronological order, fans can enjoy a cohesive and more impactful narrative experience.