Sad End to an Era: "Dragon Ball Daima" Reaches Finale
Tough news for "Dragon Ball" fans: The official "Dragon Ball" website has announced that the current anime, "Dragon Ball Daima," is nearing its final chapter. The last episode is scheduled to air on February 28th, marking the end of the series.
There's a tinge of melancholy, as this announcement signifies the end of another great series from the pen of the legendary Akira Toriyama. It's even more painful considering the far-too-early passing of its creator, meaning that the story cannot be continued, at least for the time being.
Episode 17 of "Dragon Ball Daima" was released last Friday. If the weekly broadcast schedule continues, the series will reach its momentous finale with episode 20.
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[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/embed/U3oMwgVpXXU[/youtube]Background of the Anime Hit "Dragon Ball Daima"
"Dragon Ball Daima" premiered to much fanfare on October 11, 2024, and immediately captivated a large and enthusiastic fanbase. The initial broadcast was on Fuji TV in Japan. Simultaneously with the Japanese release, streaming began on Crunchyroll, also on October 11th. Netflix users had to be a little more patient: In Asia, the series was available from October 14th, and worldwide from October 18th.
Since January 10, 2025, fans have had a special treat: Stephanie Nadolny, the original English voice actress for Son Goku, returned for "Dragon Ball Daima." Yoshitaka Yashima, who has worked on well-known formats such as "Digimon" and "Dragon Ball Super," directed the anime. Katsuyoshi Nakatsuru, who has also demonstrated his skills in "Digimon" and "Dragon Ball Z," was responsible for the characteristic character design.
The visual foundation of "Dragon Ball Daima" consists of drawings and designs by the late Akira Toriyama, ensuring that his unmistakable style lives on. Yuuko Kakihara was responsible for the script, bringing her experience from productions such as "Digimon Adventure tri.", "Urusei Yatsura 2022," and "Cells at Work!" Akio Iyoku, Executive Producer and founder of Capsule Corporation Tokyo – essentially the boss behind the project – oversaw the entire production.
The Story: Childlike Heroes in a Demonic World
In "Dragon Ball Daima," Goku, Vegeta, Bulma, Piccolo, and many other familiar characters are transformed back into children by a failed Shenron wish. This scenario differs significantly from "Dragon Ball GT," where only Goku became a child. The rejuvenated heroes find themselves in a mysterious demon world consisting of three different realms.
There, their adventurous journey begins, where they not only seek a way back to their original forms but also have to save the Earth God Dende, who has been turned into a baby. Along the way, they encounter fascinating and dangerous new friends and enemies.
The series title "Daima" itself doesn't have a clear-cut meaning, but the Kanji used can be interpreted as "evil," hinting at darker undertones.
Conclusion: A Labor of Love for Longtime Fans
With shining eyes, I confess that I have been a loyal fan of "Dragon Ball" since childhood – more precisely, since I was twelve years old. I have devoured countless mangas and always watched the latest anime series. "Dragon Ball" has deeply influenced me and significantly shaped me into the anime fan I am today.
Source: Dragon Ball Official Website, ">Toei Animation YouTube Channel