The Future of Dragon Ball: Will It Continue After Akira Toriyama's Departure?

After the passing of the legendary artist and creator, Akira Toriyama, in March 2024, the future of the Dragon Ball franchise has become a topic of much speculation. As one of the most influential and beloved anime and manga series in history, Dragon Ball has left a significant mark on popular culture. The question on everyone's mind is: will the franchise continue, and if so, how?

Toyotarou's Inheritance

One of the key figures in the future of Dragon Ball is Toyotarou, who has been named as the successor to Toriyama. Since 2016, Toyotarou has been assisting Toriyama in the production of Dragon Ball Super and other non-canonical spin-offs. Following Toriyama's death, Toyotarou is expected to take over the full responsibility of continuing the series.

Toriyama and Toyotarou's relationship was characterized by mutual respect and admiration. Toriyama praised Toyotarou's talent and drawing style, seeing him as a worthy successor. Toyotarou's love for Dragon Ball is evident in his creations, such as the Dragon Ball AF web manga, which presents an intriguing continuation of the story.

Legal and Creative Challenges

While the creative transition is underway, there are several legal and creative challenges that need to be addressed. Contracts and agreements that were previously approved by Toriyama must be revised to reflect the new direction. This includes decisions about the continuation of Dragon Ball Super, the fate of the affiliated spin-offs, and potential collaborations with other media franchises.

Another pressing concern is the upcoming Dragon Ball Daima anime. This will likely be the final work under Toriyama's guidance, and its quality will set the tone for the future of the franchise. The anime's direction by Aya Komaki, known for her work on One Piece, raises hopes for a successful continuation.

The Impact on Dragon Ball Fans

The death of Toriyama has had a profound impact on the Dragon Ball community. Many fans have relied on his genius for years and may struggle to accept his departure. However, the legacy of Dragon Ball and the quality of the successors suggest that the franchise can continue to thrive.

Toyotarou's take on Dragon Ball Super has not been without criticism. Some fans have pointed out flaws in certain arcs, such as the Tournament of Power, which they found poorly executed compared to the animated adaptations. Nevertheless, Toyotarou's commitment to the story and his deep love for the series are undeniably positive forces.

The hope remains that Toyotarou will continue to honor Toriyama's vision while bringing his own unique touch to the franchise. Dragon Ball's enduring popularity, with the latest volumes being highly regarded, suggests that the future is still bright. As of now, Dragon Ball Super is the most trending Shonen manga, a testament to its ongoing relevance and impact.

From video games like Dragon Ball Sparking Zero to potential future expands, Dragon Ball has numerous projects on the horizon. This project portfolio not only guarantees the franchise's continuity but also its evolution. Fans can look forward to a future where Dragon Ball continues to inspire and entertain.

In conclusion, while the future of Dragon Ball may still be uncertain, the presence of Toyotarou and the enduring legacy of Akira Toriyama provide reason for hope. As fans, we can only wait and see how these talented successors navigate the path ahead. For now, we can enjoy the ongoing story and anticipate the exciting developments to come.