Dragon Ball is a cornerstone of the battle shonen genre, often sparking passionate debates among fans. Some adore it, while others find it a relic of their childhood. Regardless of personal preference, it’s undeniable that Akira Toriyama’s manga laid the foundation for countless subsequent series.

Initially, Dragon Ball doesn’t immediately come to mind when people think of shonen. It started as a light-hearted comedy inspired by Journey to the West. The show’s humor, joviality, and unexpected grounding set it apart from the world-destroying battles that define the genre. For fans, this evolution was a delight, as the story grew and developed alongside them. Critics, however, found the tonal shift jarring, as if two different series had been merged.

As the tournament arcs unfolded, Dragon Ball began to take shape as a contemporary battle manga. It introduced structured fights, unique and powerful opponents, and competitors who propelled the protagonist forward. These elements would later be perfected and expanded upon in series like Naruto, One Piece, Bleach, and My Hero Academia. Regardless of whether you’re a fan of these shows or not, it’s hard to deny that Dragon Ball was the pioneer of this genre.

The rivalry between Goku and Vegeta, for instance, became a template for many shonen dynamics. The boastful competitor who enters as an adversary and gradually overcomes their opponent is a familiar trope in the genre. Fans appreciate the simplicity and effectiveness of this dynamic, while critics argue that it lacks subtlety compared to later interpretations. Both perspectives have their merits, as Dragon Ball’s original approach laid the groundwork for the evolution of this archetype.

Next, we have the introduction of Super Saiyan. It wasn’t just a power-up; it was an event that triggered emotions, altered visuals, and changed the tone of how manga depicted escalation. Change is a staple in battle series, and at the time, these transformations seemed monumental. However, to some readers who revisit the series, the ever-increasing forms and power levels may feel overwhelming. What was once revolutionary may seem commonplace decades later due to its frequent repetition.

Another aspect worth discussing is Toriyama’s art. His paneling is clean, his fights are easy to follow, and his mastery of motion is impeccable. Even those who don’t enjoy the story often acknowledge the readability and dynamism of the action. However, the simplicity of the art style may not appeal to readers who prefer detailed or stylized modern art.

Dragon Ball is a straightforward show with a simple theme: self-improvement, surpassing limits, and facing stronger opponents to become stronger. Goku is not a morally ambiguous hero; he’s straightforward and pure in his love for fighting. To viewers, this naivety is refreshing and mythical. However, some may find it emotionally shallow compared to characters driven by inner struggles.

Regardless of your enthusiasm for Dragon Ball, you can’t deny its cultural and creative influence. Toriyama has been an inspiration for many major mangaka. The arc narratives, rising villains, rivalries, training scenes, and transformation climaxes that are characteristic of battle shonen can all be traced back to Dragon Ball in some form or another.

Dragon Ball, despite its age, continues to captivate readers with its ability to provide excitement, momentum, and heart. While some aspects of the series may seem outdated or lacking in depth compared to newer stories, its enduring popularity is a testament to its remarkable storytelling.

The most iconic moments of Dragon Ball, such as Goku and Vegeta’s first Super Saiyan transformations, their rivalry, and the tension of tournaments, have transcended time and become benchmarks in the genre. The series’ pure and infectious energy continues to resonate with audiences even today.

Dragon Ball may not necessarily be the most complex battle manga ever written, but it excels in its execution. It has created a unique language of action storytelling that has influenced countless series.

Whether one loves or dislikes Dragon Ball, its magnificence is undeniable.