Unraveling the True Creator Behind Dragon Ball Super: Akira Toriyama’s Involvement

Dragon Ball Super (DBS) has captivated audiences worldwide since its release. Fans often wonder: who exactly wrote this monumental continuation of the Dragon Ball saga? Numerous theories and speculations have emerged, but the truth is rooted in complex collaboration and artistic direction. In this article, we will delve into who wrote Dragon Ball Super and clarify the role and contributions of Akira Toriyama, the franchise’s creator.

Dragon Ball Super: A Team Effort or Toriyama’s Creation?

Dragon Ball Super is a collaborative project that combines art direction with manga and anime storytelling. Contrary to public belief, Akira Toriyama, the legendary artist behind the original Dragon Ball series, has been deeply involved. Many assume that the show’s episodes and storylines are authored by external writers, but the truth is more nuanced. Toriyama’s role extends beyond a simple creative consultation; he is the primary architect behind many decisions made in the franchise.

Legacy of Dragon Ball

The franchise began with Dragon Ball (DB) by Akira Toriyama, followed by Dragon Ball Z (DBZ), where the narrative chiefly developed under the artist's direction. However, with time, Toriyama felt it was necessary to craft a proper sequel to DBZ. This was driven by the public's strong affection for DBZ and the inadequacy of the Dragon Ball EVOLUTION movie (DBE), which he deemed unsatisfactory. Consequently, Toriyama returned with Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods (BoG), establishing a new canon that would seamlessly transition into Dragon Ball Super (DBS).

Transitional Role: DBZ to DBS

Dragon Ball Super serves as a pivotal transitional phase in the franchise. After the Dragon Ball Z: Broly (DBZ: B) and Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods (BoG) movies, Toriyama was instrumental in crafting the opening of the anime series. The characters' growth and development in DBS echo those in the original DBZ series, despite the initial plot points of Super Saiyan Blue (SSJB) and future Goku's strength being left deliberately vague. This strategic ambiguity was designed to build excitement for the upcoming anime series.

The Involvement of Akira Toriyama

During interviews, Toriyama openly acknowledged his role in shaping Dragon Ball Super. He has stated that certain plot points such as the Zamasu arc and the Tournament of Power arc were directly influenced by his writing. Additionally, he confirmed that the pre-exhibition match in the Tournament of Power arc was a critical moment where the other gods questioned the existence of two Zenos, which all pointed back to the events in the Zamasu arc. These elements demonstrate Toriyama's direct hand in weaving the story of Dragon Ball Super.

Structure and Writing Style

The plot structure of Dragon Ball Super closely aligns with that of Dragon Ball, another clear indicator of Toriyama’s involvement. In the original DBZ, Toriyama established a narrative where major antagonists like Freeza, the androids, and Cell were introduced in a logical progression. Similarly, in DBS, Toriyama continued to shape the story by making each new antagonist, such as Hit, Zamasu, and Jiren, stronger over time.

Conclusion: Akira Toriyama’s Ultimate Responsibility

In conclusion, while Dragon Ball Super is a collaborative effort, the creative vision and direction within the franchise ultimately lie with Akira Toriyama. His art direction, storyboarding, and narrative guidance have ensured that the series maintains a continuity and structure that aligns with the original Dragon Ball series. Fans of the franchise can rest assured that Toriyama’s legacy continues to thrive, shaping the future of Dragon Ball in ways both fans and newcomers can enjoy.