Dragon Ball celebrates this Thursday the 40 years of its first animated broadcast, a milestone that arrives loaded with expectations for the franchise’s return. After the silence following Akira Toriyama‘s death in 2024, the saga announces news that promises to revitalize its global legacy.
New Dragon Ball deliveries on the horizon
The announcement was made at the Festival Genkidama, a massive event on the outskirts of Tokyo. It highlights the improved version of Dragon Ball Super: Beerus, the starting point of the Dragon Ball Super series. Additionally, Dragon Ball Super: The Galactic Patrol arrives, a new season after eight years of waiting, adapting the Moro arc from the manga where Toriyama handed over creative reins to his disciple Toyotaro.
The game Dragon Ball: Age 1000 is added, with a character designed by Toriyama before his death from cerebral hemorrhage. Leaks suggest it could be Xenoverse 3, expanding the Dragon Ball universe in video games.
The battle for Dragon Ball rights
The Dragon Ball hiatus was due to disputes over rights between Capsule Corporation Tokyo, Toei Animation, and Shueisha. These announcements indicate a preliminary agreement to exploit the brand, which has defined generations in pop culture.
Unforgettable legacy of Dragon Ball and its icons
The impact of Dragon Ball transcends Japan: inspired by Westward Journey, it follows the adventures of Son Goku, a Saiyan who defends the Earth. The original anime, broadcast from 1986 to 1989, captured audiences with its transformations and epic battles.
In October 2025, Masako Nozawa, Goku’s voice since 1986, received the title of Person of Cultural Merit from the Japanese government, the first for a seiyuu. At 89 years old, Nozawa remembered Toriyama’s request: “Take care of Goku”. She has also given voice to Doraemon and characters from One Piece.
- Dragon Ball has sold over 260 million manga worldwide.
- It has influenced sagas like Naruto and One Punch Man.
- The franchise generates billions in merchandising and adaptations.
These milestones confirm that Dragon Ball, despite losses, maintains its strength. The 40th anniversary of Dragon Ball opens a promising chapter for fans in the Dominican Republic and the world.
