Dragon Ball Super has just released its latest manga volume, which features subtle yet impactful changes in the illustrations. Accompanying this release is a special artwork by Toyotaro, aptly named Toriyama’s World Forever, which pays homage to Akira Toriyama’s iconic creations over the years. The artwork has struck a chord with fans, many of whom have expressed their gratitude, stating how fortunate they feel to have Toyotaro at the helm of the series.
In light of Akira Toriyama’s passing on March 1, 2024, tributes across various media have emerged to celebrate his monumental legacy. The illustration featured in Dragon Ball Super is among the more heartfelt of these, especially given Toyotaro’s close mentorship under Toriyama and their personal bond, which adds an even deeper emotional layer for fans.
Fans Enthusiastically Embrace Toyotaro’s Tribute to Toriyama
The newly launched volume of Dragon Ball Super encapsulates the conclusion of several key arcs, coinciding with Toyotaro’s one-shot narrative featuring Goten and Trunks. This edition showcases an array of Toriyama’s renowned characters, including Goku and beloved figures from other series such as Dr. Slump’s Arale and Sandland’s Beelzebub, making it a fitting tribute to his expansive legacy.
As fans navigate the mourning phase following Toriyama’s death, they recognize the timing of this illustration coincides with the release of the new volume. Toyotaro’s dedication to honoring Toriyama’s influence showcases the profound respect he holds for him, a sentiment echoed throughout the manga.
Current Dynamics and Future Prospects
Despite the uncertainties surrounding the franchise due to ongoing legal disputes, it appears Toyotaro will remain at the forefront of the dragon ball series. His recent one-shot garnered positive feedback, reflecting the fans’ confidence in his ability to uphold Toriyama’s storied legacy.
In volume 24, Toyotaro reassures fans that the story will continue despite apprehensions over potential cancellations. Many are particularly interested in the developments related to characters like Black Freezer and the expanding arcs surrounding Piccolo, Gohan, and Broly, all of which contribute to a deeper exploration of the Dragon Ball universe.
“Toyotaro is not just a DB fan; he is a hardcore Toriyama fan. That’s why he’s the successor,”a fan remarked.
“The biggest fan of Toriyama now controls Dragon Ball. It couldn’t have gone to anyone else,”another added.
“THIS is how you do a tribute to a beloved icon,”one observer commented.
“I love that he drew more than the two characters Toriyama is most known for (Goku and Arale)—characters related to Dragon Ball (Jaco and Neko Majin) or the guy from Sandland,”a different fan remarked.
The reception from the Dragon Ball Super community has been overwhelmingly positive, as fans vocalize their support and confidence in Toyotaro’s capability to continue the influential work left behind by Toriyama.