Introduction

Dragon Ball and Naruto stand as renowned ninja and superhero series, capturing the hearts of many over the years. Both works, created by Akira Toriyama and Masashi Kishimoto respectively, offer an incredible journey through humor, action, and a deep exploration of character growth. However, when it comes to watching the original Dragon Ball series (DB) before proceeding to Dragon Ball Z (DBZ), the decision can be tricky. While some argue it is essential, others might find it redundant. This article aims to provide a comprehensive analysis, focusing on the enjoyment and value of watching the original Dragon Ball series before moving on to Dragon Ball Z.

Comparing Dragon Ball and Naruto

Both Dragon Ball and Naruto offer a space in their fictional universes where you can enjoy a blend of comedic adult humor and an engaging storytelling approach. In Dragon Ball, you can more easily relate to characters like Goku, and the series manages to maintain a balance between compelling plotlines and constant action, albeit sometimes at the cost of character development. In contrast, Naruto, particularly with the addition of Naruto Shippuden, continues to maintain a strong narrative focus, offering a more grounded and character-driven storyline. Both series have their merits, but they also differ significantly in terms of pacing and narrative focus.

Is It Necessary to Watch the Original Dragon Ball Before Dragon Ball Z?

It is not strictly necessary to watch the original Dragon Ball series before diving into Dragon Ball Z. While the original series provides some context and backstory, especially for key characters like Goku and his companions, it is certainly possible to start with the Z series and still enjoy the story. However, understanding the characters' origins, their relationships, and some of the key events can indeed enhance the viewing experience.

For instance, you learn more about how young Goku met his companions and the introduction of characters like Red Ribbon Army, which played a significant role in the Android and Cell Saga. These storylines are not negligible, but the series itself is so vast that it takes hundreds of episodes to cover them comprehensively.

While watching all these episodes might be extensive, it is not entirely necessary. The original Dragon Ball series does provide a good introduction to the characters and their relationships, which can help you appreciate the later saga more thoroughly.

Personal Experience and Recommendation

Many people, including personal experience, have tried to start with Dragon Ball Z and found it wasn't as action-packed as they had hoped. Dragon Ball Z is designed to be more dynamically engaging and maintains a faster pace, which can be harder to maintain for some viewers. If you have watched the original Dragon Ball, it indeed introduces the characters and how they meet, providing a solid foundation.

However, for those starting from scratch, it might be more beneficial to choose a starting point based on personal preference. If you have no interest in the original Dragon Ball and find it repetitive or less engaging, starting with Dragon Ball Z might be a better choice. However, if you want to appreciate the full journey and enjoy the history and character development, starting with the original Dragon Ball can be a rewarding experience.

Dragon Ball Progression

For those who wish to explore the entirety of the Dragon Ball universe, the correct chronological order is as follows:

Dragon Ball Dragon Ball Z (or Dragon Ball Z Kai) Dragon Ball Super Skipped: Dragon Ball GT

Additionally, there are movies within the Dragon Ball series, but not all of them are considered canon, and their chronological order can be confusing.

Conclusion

Should you watch the original Dragon Ball before Dragon Ball Z? Yes, in part. The original series provides a strong foundation for the characters and their development, enhancing the overall enjoyment of Dragon Ball Z. However, it's not strictly necessary for every viewer, especially those who find the original series less engaging or repetitive.

Nevertheless, if you choose to watch the original Dragon Ball series, you will find it a rich and engaging experience that brings more depth to the later saga. Whether you start with Dragon Ball or Dragon Ball Z, both series continue to maintain their relevance and popularity, offering something for everyone in the fantasy and action genres.