The Best Order to Watch Dragonball: Guide for New and Old Fans Alike

The Dragon Ball franchise is a beloved series that has captivated audiences since its inception. With multiple iterations, each with its unique storylines and characters, the best order to watch the Dragon Ball series can be a bit confusing. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the series and determine which order works best for you.

Recommended Watch Order

Dragon Ball (1986-1996) Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996) Dragon Ball Super (2015-2018) Dragon Ball GT (1996-1997) - Optional

Dragon Ball introduces Goku as a child and covers the early parts of his adventures and training. It’s a great starting point for those new to the franchise. Dragon Ball Z picks up where the original series left off, focusing on Goku as an adult and introducing new characters and the concept of Super Saiyans. It’s often considered the most iconic part of the franchise. Dragon Ball Super takes place after the events of Z and brings back Goku as an adult, exploring new story arcs and character developments. The final series is a great way to conclude your Dragon Ball journey. Dragon Ball GT is an optional addition, as it is not canon and has mixed reviews among fans.

Best and Worst Series

The Best: Dragon Ball Z

Many fans regard Dragon Ball Z as the definitive Dragon Ball experience. Here’s why:

Popularity and Influence: It is the most popular and influential series in the franchise, known for its memorable battles and character development. Iconic Moments: It features some of the franchise’s most memorable and iconic moments, which are often fondly remembered by fans. Character Growth: The series focuses on Goku and other characters developing and growing, which many fans find engaging. Consistency: Compared to other series, Dragon Ball Z is often seen as the most coherent and consistent part of the franchise.

The Worst: Dragon Ball GT

Dragon Ball GT has received mixed reviews and is often criticized for the following reasons:

Lack of Coherence: Some fans find the series to lack direction and coherence compared to the other series. Not Based on Manga: It’s not based on the original manga, which many fans consider canon. Character Designs: Some fans appreciate its unique take and character designs, but it’s not universally well-received. Non-Canonical Status: Many fans dismiss it as non-canon due to its divergence from the original story.

Summary

If you are new to the franchise, start with Dragon Ball, then move to Dragon Ball Z. You can choose to skip Dragon Ball GT for a more canonical experience, and then finish your journey with Dragon Ball Super. Enjoy your viewing and the thrilling adventures of Goku and his friends!