One of the most critical factors in determining whetherDragon Ball Daimais canon lies inAkira Toriyama’s involvement. Over the years, theDragon Ballfranchise has seen multiple spin-offs and alternate universe stories—some, likeDragon Ball GT, were developed without direct input from Toriyama beyond character designs. However,Daimastands apart because Toriyama himself is responsible for its character concepts, world-building, and overarching story direction. This alone sets it apart from past anime-exclusive stories and gives it a unique place within the franchise’s ever-expanding mythos.
Dragon Ball Daimais the latest series in the long-running franchise. In this iteration, Goku and his fellow Z-Fighters are transformed into child-like versions of themselves, forcing them into an unexpected adventure in the previously unexplored Great Demon Realm. Goku’s smaller form allows for fast-paced action sequences that emphasize agility and technique over thepower-scaling arms racethat has defined the franchise in recent years. WhileDaimawas designed to appeal to both longtime fans and new viewers alike, one key question remains—how do Goku’s new adventures fit into the officialDragon Balltimeline?
Dragon Ball Daima’s Producer Weighs in on Its Position on the Timeline
Akira Toriyama’s Involvement Places the Series Squarely Within Dragon Ball Canon
In a recent interview with Mantan-web, executive producer Iyoku Akio confirms thatToriyama played a significant role in shapingDaima’s narrative. Akio reveals that discussions for a newDragon Ballanime began nearly six years ago, initially as a separate project fromDragon Ball Super: Super Hero. The early concept stages were intended to give Toriyama a more limited role, mainly as a consultant.
“[Toriyama] was directly involved in shaping the anime. It is undeniably tied to the Majin Buu arc — this is clear." - AKIO IYOKU
However,Toriyama became increasingly invested in taking on a far greater creative rolethan originally planned before his passing in 2024. Toriyama was responsible for fleshing out the Great Demon Realm and sketching its inhabitants. This partnership ensured the story aligned with the broaderDragon Balluniverse without overburdening Toriyama.
Dragon Ball Chief Confirms Daima’s Connection to GT: “New Series With the Same Spirit”
Dragon Ball Daima sets itself apart from Super by embracing GT-inspired storytelling in Toriyama’s last Dragon Ball anime.
This deep level of involvement placesDaimain direct continuity with Toriyama’s previous works, confirming that it takes place after theMajin Buu Saga. Akio explicitly states thatDaimais a continuation of the story, firmly connected toDragon Ball’s established lore. WhileDaimashares thematic similarities withDragon Ball GT, given Goku’s transformed state—it remains fundamentally distinct due to Toriyama’s guiding vision. UnlikeGT, which was developed independently of Toriyama’s storytelling,Daimais an extension of the universe as its creator conceived it.
As Dragon Ball’s Lore Grows, So Does Its Cultural Footprint
Dragon Ball Daima Perfectly Balances Nostalgia with Modern Twists
Nearly 40 years after its debut, theDragon Ballfranchise remains one of the most influential and commercially successful anime properties of all time. Its continued relevance is due not only to its evolving storyline but also to its ability to adapt and expand beyond the realm of anime and manga.The franchise shows no signs of slowing downeither, with producers already promisingnew content for decades to come. In addition to new anime and film projects,Dragon Ball’s sustained success has led tonumerous brand collaborationsthat keep the series firmly embedded in global pop culture.
Clothing brands like UNIQLO have released exclusive apparel lines featuring artwork fromDaima, celebrating both its fresh aesthetic and its nostalgic callbacks to earlier eras. Bandai Premium has also launched a collaboration inspired byDragon Ball Z, featuringbeanies based on characterssuch as Goku and Oolong. Even streaming services like Amazon Prime Video have gotten involved, securing rights to streamDaima, and shipping orders in themed boxes to promote the series. More than just another spin-off,Daimahas reignited the franchise by honoringDragon Ball’s past while paving the way for its future.
