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For those considering getting intoDragon Ball, it may be difficult to decide where to start. With multiple titles within the series and asomewhat daunting episode count, is it really worth it to start from the beginning? Some might suggest diving in at one point or another, but many would insist the logical entry point would be episode one. It’s certainly not unheard of to begin a long series from a midpoint, if only to get your feet wet before committing, but is this a case where it’s actually worthwhile to get all that backstory, or is it more efficient to start elsewhere?
There are few anime titles that can be as universally recognized as Akira Toriyama’s beloved classic,Dragon Ball. Beginning its run in Shonen Jump in 1984, Toei adapted the manga into an anime in 1986. The series was translated for release in English in 1989, but didn’t quite catch on until it was aired duringthe popular Cartoon Network block, Toonami. The thing is, Toonami airedDragon Ball Zfirst, not adding the original Dragon Ball to their lineup until 2001. Thanks to this, it’s not uncommon for even die-hard fans of the show to be unacquainted with the first 153 episodes.
There’s a Long Way to Go
An Episode Count That’s Nothing to Sneeze at
Speaking of episodes, when totalingDragon Ball,Dragon Ball Z,GT,Super, andDaima, the count currently comes to 659. That’s not eventaking the fourteen animated movies, the live-actions, or the HD re-release of DBZ, Dragon Ball Kai into account. That’s all spanned across six different series.
Skipping what some would call an unnecessary backstory might seem appealing to those feeling overwhelmed. With the wayDragon Ball Zis structured, it’s possible to start from there and rely on catch-up dialogue and narration to fill in for what was missed. That being said, the highlight of Dragon Ball isn’t necessarily the story. Where the original shines is its knee-slapping humor.
’80s Comedy At Its Best
The Jokes Hold Up
To be fair, Toriyama’s sense of humor can be seen throughout the series, but as stakes rise with the continuation of the story, some complain that there are fewer chuckle-worthy moments than there were when the journey began. The original series is jam-packed with moments that shock and amuse.
If you think this appetizer looks good, take a look at the main course!
-Goku
Young Goku, with his country bumpkin naivety coupled with childish curiosity, is consistently hilarious. Bulma, Roshi, and the rest of the cast are just as entertaining, if not more. Between the punchlines are the kicks and jabs of a typical shonen anime, and, predictably,a journey for the legendary dragon balls. All of that, packaged in charming, classic animation, makesDragon Balla delight from beginning to end.
Memorable Characters That Fell Through the Cracks
In addition to the nostalgic humor, starting from the beginning gives viewers the opportunity to appreciate the characters that eventually get little to no screen time further into the series. With a lot of theoriginal characters forced to take a backseatinZand beyond as new protagonists are introduced, these early episodes are the only time some of them feel relevant.Yamcha enjoyers can attest to this fact. The first series not only gives backstories for many of the Z Fighters, but also allows them key roles in the plot. Jumping in atZorSuperwill leave viewers missing out on some characters completely. It may seem like a minor loss, considering they weren’t important enough to maintain screen time, but quirky characters like Launch remain fan-favorites, despite disappearing from the script.
It’s An Important First Step
All in all, there are plenty of reasons to watchDragon Ball. It sets the very foundation for one of the most popular anime of all time. New fans can watch to get primed forDragon Ball Z, while the old can treat it as a prequel, filling in missing history. Starting the series from any point is valid. The most important part is just starting. Watch in any order that makes sense.Goku is a great protagonist, regardless of his age. Every leg of his journey has been a joy to watch for viewers around the world. Join the community in whatever way works best. Just don’t start withGT.
