Welcome, fellow Dragon Ball enthusiasts, to the ultimate guide for diving into the legendary universe of Dragon Ball! Whether you’re a seasoned fan looking to relive the saga or a newcomer eager to join the adventure, understanding the best way to watch the series can enhance your experience immensely. Today, we’ll navigate through three popular ways to watch Dragon Ball: Chronological order, Release order, and the intriguing Machete order. Each offers a unique perspective, so let’s dive in and find the perfect fit for your viewing pleasure!
Chronological Order
Watching Dragon Ball in chronological order allows you to experience the story as it unfolds in the series’ timeline. This approach can deepen your understanding of character development and the intricate plotlines.
Chronological Viewing Sequence:
- Dragon Ball: Start with Goku’s early adventures as he discovers his origins and encounters legendary characters like Bulma and Master Roshi.
- Dragon Ball Z: Bardock – The Father of Goku (TV Special): Get a glimpse into Goku’s heritage and the Saiyan race.
- Dragon Ball Z: Episode of Bardock (OVA): Explore this alternative storyline for a different perspective on Goku’s father.
- Dragon Ball Z: Embark on the epic journey of Goku and his friends facing off against foes like Vegeta, Frieza, and Cell.
- Dragon Ball Z: The History of Trunks (TV Special): Delve into the grim future that led Trunks to travel back in time.
- Dragon Ball GT: Although not canon in the main storyline, GT offers a unique take with thrilling adventures.
- Dragon Ball Super: Return to the canon timeline with new challenges and powerful foes such as Beerus and the Tournament of Power.
- Dragon Ball Super: Broly (Movie): This film adds depth to the Super storyline, introducing Broly in a fresh narrative.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Provides a comprehensive look at the series’ timeline, enhancing character arcs and story continuity.
- Cons: Some non-canon content might disrupt the flow of the main storyline for purists.
Release Order
Many fans prefer the release order to experience the series as the world did. This approach captures the evolution of animation and storytelling techniques over the years.
Release Viewing Sequence:
- Dragon Ball (1986-1989)
- Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996)
- Dragon Ball GT (1996-1997)
- Dragon Ball Z Movies (1989-1996): Integrate these between series episodes for extra thrills.
- Dragon Ball Super (2015-2018)
- Dragon Ball Super Movies (2013-present): Watch these films alongside the Super series.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Experience the series as it was originally broadcast, appreciating the progression in animation and storytelling.
- Cons: The timeline can feel disjointed, with movies occasionally disrupting the main series continuity.
Machete Order
The Machete order isn’t just for Star Wars anymore! This creative approach focuses on maximizing the story’s thematic elements while minimizing distractions from non-essential content.
Machete Viewing Sequence:
- Dragon Ball
- Dragon Ball Z (Saiyan Saga through Frieza Saga)
- Dragon Ball Z: Bardock – The Father of Goku
- Dragon Ball Z: The History of Trunks
- Dragon Ball Z (Android Saga through Majin Buu Saga)
- Dragon Ball Super
- Dragon Ball Super: Broly
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Eliminates GT and non-canon movies that might detract from the core story, focusing on pivotal character development and plot arcs.
- Cons: Some fans might miss the additional content that adds flavor to the universe.
Recommendations for Different Viewers
- For Newcomers: Start with the Chronological order to grasp the story continuity and character growth.
- For Nostalgic Fans: Dive into the Release order to relive the series as it originally captivated audiences.
- For Story-Driven Viewers: Opt for the Machete order to experience a streamlined, impactful journey without the non-canon distractions.
No matter which path you choose, the world of Dragon Ball is rich with adventure, friendship, and epic battles that continue to inspire fans across the globe. Grab your senzu beans, gather the Dragon Balls, and enjoy the ride! Feel free to share your viewing experiences and join the community discussions as we celebrate everything Dragon Ball. Happy watching!
