The Dragon Ball franchise has been a cornerstone of anime for decades, constantly evolving through new sagas, spin-offs, and films. The latest addition to this legendary series, Dragon Ball Daima, has generated immense excitement and speculation among fans. One of the biggest questions surrounding the series is whether it is canon. In this blog post, we’ll analyze Dragon Ball Daima’s place in the Dragon Ball timeline and determine its canonical status.
What is Dragon Ball Daima?
Dragon Ball Daima is a new anime series that was officially announced during New York Comic Con 2023. The series was developed with heavy involvement from Akira Toriyama, the original creator of Dragon Ball, who worked on the story, setting, and character designs before his passing in 2024. This direct contribution from Toriyama gives Dragon Ball Daima significant credibility as a true continuation of the Dragon Ball saga.
The premise of the show follows Goku and his allies, who are mysteriously transformed into children due to an unknown force. They must embark on a new journey to restore themselves while facing formidable enemies along the way. The series promises to blend the high-stakes action of Dragon Ball Z with the lighthearted adventure elements reminiscent of the original Dragon Ball.
Where Does It Fit in the Timeline?
Understanding the timeline placement is crucial in determining whether Dragon Ball Daima is canon. Based on early promotional materials and interviews, the events of Daima take place between the defeat of Kid Buu in Dragon Ball Z and the beginning of Dragon Ball Super. This period is relatively unexplored, making it an ideal setting for a new adventure. Unlike Dragon Ball GT, which took place after Z and was later deemed non-canon due to the arrival of Super, Daima carefully nestles itself within an already established part of the timeline.
Another strong indication of its canonical status is that Dragon Ball Daima does not contradict the events of Dragon Ball Super. The transformation of Goku and his friends into children is presented as a temporary event rather than a major retcon of the story. If anything, it expands on the lore while maintaining continuity with the main storyline.
Toriyama’s Involvement and Canon Consideration
One of the biggest arguments in favor of Dragon Ball Daima being canon is Toriyama’s involvement. Unlike Dragon Ball GT, which had little input from him, Daima features a storyline and characters developed directly by Toriyama himself. This alone solidifies its place in the official continuity, as previous non-canon projects lacked this level of authenticity.
Furthermore, Toriyama’s hand in crafting new characters, such as the primary antagonist Gomah from the Demon Realm, ensures that these additions fit within the established Dragon Ball universe. His passing in 2024 makes Daima one of the last projects he worked on, giving it even greater significance in the franchise’s history.
Unique Elements Introduced in Daima
Aside from its place in the timeline, Dragon Ball Daima introduces new elements that expand the lore of the series. Some highlights include:
- New Transformations: Vegeta finally achieves Super Saiyan 3, a transformation that had previously appeared in video games but was never made part of the official anime timeline.
- Expanded Demon Realm Lore: The introduction of Gomah and other characters from the Demon Realm sheds light on an aspect of the Dragon Ball universe that has only been briefly mentioned in past arcs.
- Classic Adventure Elements: The premise of Goku and his friends being turned into children and embarking on a quest gives Daima a nostalgic feel reminiscent of the original Dragon Ball series, but with the high-energy action expected from modern Dragon Ball storytelling.
The Emotional Finale and Tribute to Toriyama
The final episode of Dragon Ball Daima, titled “Zenkai” (Complete Recovery), aired on February 28, 2025. Notably, the closing credits extended into the early minutes of March 1st, marking the one-year anniversary of Toriyama’s passing. This poetic timing was seen as a touching tribute to the legendary creator, reminding fans of his enduring influence on the series.
Verdict: Is Dragon Ball Daima Canon?
Based on the evidence, Dragon Ball Daima is widely considered canon. Its placement within the Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Super timeline, the direct involvement of Akira Toriyama, and the lack of contradictions with established lore all support its legitimacy. While some fans may compare it to Dragon Ball GT due to the child transformation theme, Daima is fundamentally different in that it aligns with the official storyline rather than being an alternate sequel.
As the Dragon Ball franchise continues to evolve, Dragon Ball Daima stands as an exciting new chapter that expands the universe while staying true to its roots. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, this series offers a fresh yet familiar journey into the world of Saiyans, transformations, and epic battles.
What are your thoughts on Dragon Ball Daima? Do you consider it canon? Let us know in the comments below!
