A brand new original anime under the Dragon Ball franchise has been announced during a panel at New York Comic Con. It’s titled “Dragon Ball Daima,” and its premiere is set for the Autumn 2024 season (October-December) according to the promotional video.
This international phenomenon began in 1984 when Akira Toriyama’s manga was first published in Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump magazine, eventually becoming one of the most significant titles over the ten and a half years it was in circulation. To date, the Dragon Ball manga has sold over 260 million copies worldwide, and that number keeps growing.
Unsurprisingly, such a colossal success led to both television and film adaptations, and, of course, video games and merchandise weren’t far behind. It’s been 39 years since it all began, and Dragon Ball continues to evolve, adapt, and reach new heights.
Included in the announcement of Dragon Ball Daima was a message from the author, Akira Toriyama, where he partly explains the main theme of this new project:
“Hello, I’m Akira Toriyama. I’m currently working on a new Dragon Ball. The title is “Dragon Ball DAIMA”. “DAIMA” is a compound term, which in Japanese would mean “evil”. Due to a conspiracy, Son Goku and his friends are turned into children. To set things right, they head to a new world! It’s a grand adventure with intense action in an unknown and mysterious world. As Son Goku has to cope with his small size, he resorts to using the “Magic Staff” to fight, something we haven’t seen in a long while. I came up with the story and settings, as well as numerous designs. I’m working harder than usual right now! There will be developments that unravel the mysteries of the Dragon Ball world. I hope you enjoy these battles that differ from the norm, both adorable and powerful!”
Not familiar with Dragon Ball?
Well, we won’t judge, but it’s highly unlikely you’re reading this without knowing who or what we’re talking about. But, just in case, here’s a brief overview of Dragon Ball’s central story:
A young and solitary Son Goku meets Bulma, a brave young adventurer searching for a set of magical items called “Dragon Balls”. Legend has it that a powerful, mythical Dragon will grant a wish to anyone who manages to gather all seven spheres. To Bulma’s surprise, Goku possesses one of the balls, a gift from his late grandfather. He’s understandably reluctant to part with it, so they strike a deal: Bulma will let Goku join her if he lends her the sphere once they find the other six. Thus, the unlikely duo embarks on the most significant journey of their lives.
Of course, such a grand adventure requires help. Other quirky and courageous adventurers will join them, forming a diverse and unique group. Naturally, they’ll face obstacles, with enemies also seeking the power of the spheres for their own ends. Over the years, Goku and his team have taken on incredibly strong fighters, super-powerful monsters, mythological beings, aliens from various planets, and even GODS and DEMONS!
Are you ready for a new adventure with this unique group that has captured the attention of several generations for nearly 40 years?
Let us know your love for Dragon ball in the comments!