Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z: Which One Appeared First?

If you're a fan of the classic anime and manga series, you might have asked yourself at some point which came first, Dragon Ball or Dragon Ball Z. This article will explore the timeline and significant moments of both series, making it easier for you to understand the history of these beloved works.

The Birth of Dragon Ball

Dragon Ball by Akira Toriyama is a manga and anime series that has captured the hearts of many. The manga series began its journey with its first chapter being published in Weekly Shonen Jump on November 20th, 1984. It marked the beginning of an epic tale that would go on to inspire countless adaptations and other works within the Dragon Ball franchise.

The Dragon Ball anime series followed closely, with its first episode airing on February 26, 1986, in Japan. The story follows the adventures of Goku, a young Saiyan who travels through space and time, facing legendary warriors and protecting the Earth from various threats. This initial series ends with Goku reaching adulthood, where the plot takes a significant shift, leading into the next series: Dragon Ball Z.

The Rise of Dragon Ball Z

Dragon Ball Z was a direct sequel to the Dragon Ball anime. The first episode of Dragon Ball Z aired on April 26, 1989, just over four years after the debut of the original series. In this continuation, the focus shifts from Goku's childhood to his adult life, as he faces new challenges and enemies, including the Galactic Patrolmen and the Frieza saga.

The Dragon Ball Z series gained immense popularity for its exciting battles, new characters, and deepening character arcs. It paved the way for the following works in the franchise, including Dragon Ball GT, Dragon Ball Kai, and Dragon Ball Super, each adding its unique twists and stories to the canon.

Continuation and Success

Dragon Ball Z was not the end of the journey for the Dragon Ball franchise. The series continued with various spin-offs and adaptations. One of the notable continuations is Dragon Ball Kai, which is a re-edited and re-structured version of Dragon Ball Z, providing a more seamless and darker storyline. On the other hand, Dragon Ball Super introduced a new cast of characters and ongoing storylines that bridge the gap between Dragon Ball Z and the current era of Dragon Ball.

Dragon Ball GT, however, is a less conventional spin-off that aired as a single TV series in Japan. It is not officially recognized as part of the official storyline by the official Dragon Ball franchise due to its inconsistent and non-canon elements.

Conclusion

Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z are two foundational works in the Dragon Ball franchise. While Dragon Ball explores Goku's early adventures and development, Dragon Ball Z focuses on his growth into an adult and his battles against powerful opponents. Both series are integral to the lore and are cherished by fans around the world. Whether you’re looking for the adventures of a young Saiyan or an adult hero fighting the ultimate good fight, these two series are a must-watch for any Dragon Ball enthusiast.