Dragon Ball is widely recognized for its intricate and often perplexing timeline, a situation that has only become more convoluted in recent years. Initially, the animation franchise presented a relatively simple chronological narrative, commencing with the original Dragon Ball series and seamlessly following into Dragon Ball Z. These two parts formed a cohesive continuation of the original manga, creating a timeline that was straightforward for fans to follow. Initially, the associated movies and video games were deemed non-canonical, allowing the primary series to be the focal point of the lore.
However, after the conclusion of Dragon Ball Z, the timeline spiraled into complexity. A decade-long gap exists between the end of the Buu Arc and the final episode of Dragon Ball Z, leading to confusion. While Dragon Ball DAIMA is touted as a direct sequel to the Buu Saga, Dragon Ball Super also claims to continue the story from Dragon Ball Z. Unfortunately, this interconnection has led to numerous inconsistencies, as revealed in a recent interview with a key animator of DAIMA.
The Messy Timeline of Dragon Ball
The Z Fighters’ Complicated Journey
The intricacies of the Dragon Ball timeline have made it one of the most challenging to navigate in anime history. Despite its acclaim as one of the greatest anime series, understanding its chronology can be daunting. None of the films from Dragon Ball Z are considered official canon, yet two movies from Dragon Ball Super are integrated into the timeline. Moreover, while the video games lack canon status, various popular transformations have influenced the main storyline.
Within the Dragon Ball universe, multiple timelines exist, such as Future Trunks’ alternate reality. Changes in character designs, particularly for Future Trunks, have further muddled the perception of canon vs. non-canon content. A lot of this ambiguity can be traced back to the “Peaceful World Saga”in Dragon Ball Z.
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Following the defeat of Kid Buu, a ten-year span occurs within Dragon Ball Z. During this period, Goku and the Z Fighters participate in the World Martial Arts Tournament, where Goku meets Uub, the reincarnation of Majin Buu, who possesses great potential. Goku chooses to train Uub, yet much about this decade remains unstated and perplexing as both Dragon Ball DAIMA and Dragon Ball Super are set to occur during this timeframe—adding layers of complexity and leaving fans questioning the continuity.
Complications Arising from Dragon Ball DAIMA
Why Didn’t Goku Use Super Saiyan 4 in Battle of the Gods?
Dragon Ball DAIMA has emerged as one of the most innovative installments in the franchise, encapsulating an engaging storyline across its 20 episodes and showcasing the franchise’s ability to deliver quality animation within a single season. However, despite its creative strengths, DAIMA has also contributed to the existing confusions surrounding the series’ timeline. Producers have claimed that it serves as a direct follow-up to the Majin Buu Saga by depicting its main antagonists observing the events thereof.
Interestingly, DAIMA does not acknowledge any events from Dragon Ball Super, raising questions about its canonical status. A significant point of contention lies in Goku’s transformation into Super Saiyan 4, as he demonstrated the ability to utilize this form in DAIMA. Contrarily, during Dragon Ball Z: Battle of the Gods, Goku resorted to his Super Saiyan 3 form when prompted by Beerus for his strongest transformation, creating a notable inconsistency.
Speculating on Alternate Timelines in Dragon Ball Super
Insights from Animator Katsuyoshi Nakatsuru
Recently, key animator Katsuyoshi Nakatsuru, an influential figure in the Dragon Ball community, discussed various topics surrounding the series during an enlightening interview. His contributions to numerous projects highlight his significance within the franchise. However, his reflections regarding the continuity of the series have left fans with more questions than clarity.
The interviewer, @SofianLeGEEK on Twitter, expertly navigated the discussion, probing Nakatsuru on whether Dragon Ball Super could be deemed an alternate sequel to the original manga due to the inconsistencies raised by DAIMA.
Is Dragon Ball Super an Alternate Sequel to the Original Manga? 🧵5/n pic.twitter.com/zEvvIUlmSh — Enomis (@Venixys) March 15, 2025
Nakatsuru, who contributed more extensively to Dragon Ball DAIMA than to Super, suggested that the latter might indeed function as an alternate timeline within the Dragon Ball universe. While he expressed uncertainty regarding the overarching narrative, he noted that this possibility stood as a plausible explanation for the growing confusion.
Although Nakatsuru’s insights were valuable, they ultimately add to the already tangled web of the Dragon Ball timeline. As fans grapple with these developments, one prevailing theory suggests that DAIMA and Super may occupy separate timelines, potentially reconciling the narrative discrepancies.
Fun Beyond Canon: The Broader Dragon Ball Universe
An Exciting Universe of Dragon Ball
The world of Dragon Ball extends far beyond its canonical narratives. With a plethora of video games, numerous non-canonical films, and engaging mobile apps featuring unique characters, transformations, and storylines, fans have a vast array of content to enjoy. This expansive universe often boasts a wealth of material that rivals the official canon.
Tragically, the passing of Dragon Ball‘s renowned creator, Akira Toriyama, in March 2024, sent shockwaves through the anime community. His absence leaves a void, with many longing for guidance on the future direction of the franchise’s narrative complexities.
Despite this uncertainty, Toriyama’s appointed successor, Toyotarou, may hold potential solutions to the ongoing canon debates. Regardless, the franchise strives to thrive through the evolution of Dragon Ball Super, continuing to captivate audiences with its animated art and storytelling.