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Since its release,Dragon Ballhas captivated audiences with its epic battles, adventurous spirit, and iconic characters. However, one series from theDragon Ballfranchise received several flak due to its reverting Goku to his child —Dragon Ball GT. But now,Dragon Ball DAIMAhas created a similar premise, although, the fans’ reactions are not quite the same.
AsDragon Ballcelebrates its 40th anniversary, the late Akira Toriyama’s last project has come to life throughDragon Ball DAIMA, which promises to revisit the concept of de-aging similar toGTbut in a way that feels purposeful and meaningful. With this purposeful approach to character de-aging,DAIMAappears to succeed whereGTfaltered, giving fans a meaningful, nostalgic, yet innovative journey.
Dragon Ball GT‘s Attempt: A Missed Opportunity
Goku’s turning into a child doesn’t really make much sense inDragon Ball GT. This series introduced the de-aging of Goku as a result of a clumsy wish made by Emperor Pilaf, who accidentally wished for Goku to be turned back into a child in a moment of confusion. The concept felt out of place in the high-stakes world ofDragon Ball Z, even though it appeared to be a playful occurrence in the early years of the franchise.
Goku’s reaction to being de-aged was also notably casual as he accepted his new form with minimal concern; treating it as a minor inconvenience rather than a major disturbance. The entire series ignored the alteration as though it were a small setback rather than making any significant impact.
Although Goku should have retained his adult memories and wisdom despite turning into a kid, the fans were also frustrated about how his character regressed to a carefree, adventurous persona without any reflection on his life as an adult reducing Goku to a 12-year-old’s mindset.
Dragon Ball DAIMA Gives Bulma Her Time in the Spotlight that She So ABSOLUTELY Deserves After Years of Neglect
The series also failed to provide a compelling reason for Goku’s de-aging, leaving fans with an awkward plot device that felt hollow and random. Moreover, Thestakes inDragon Ball GT; an impending planetary disaster caused by the Black Star Dragon Balls, were too distant from Goku’s transformation, giving fans little reason to invest in the change.
Dragon Ball DAIMA‘s Thoughtful Approach In Contrast toDragon Ball GT
Dragon Ball DAIMAalso employs the idea of de-aging, but this time, the plot is far more detailed and complex. Rather than an accidental wish,DAIMA‘s main conflict arises from a deliberate attack on Earth’s strongest defenders, including Goku. Villains who were aware of Goku’s power after he defeated Majin Buu view him as a threat and seek to neutralize him; not by destroying him instantly, but by making him more vulnerable.
When they realize that Earth’s Dragon Balls won’t cause direct harm, they resort to an ingenious plan: de-age everyone who fought Buu, weakening them drastically. This strategic twist not only puts Earth’s heroes at a disadvantage but also increases the stakes of the series.
And it’s not only Goku, butother charactersas well; from the Supreme Kai to Chi-Chi, find themselves turned back into a younger form. By impacting such a vast cast,Dragon Ball DAIMAdoubles the intensity and adds complexity to the story. It’s also worth mentioning that,Dragon Ball DAIMA‘s approach to de-aging has a deeper, metatextual significance.
Akira Toriyama’s Dragon Ball DAIMA is Set to Become the Next Star Wars, Giving George Lucas the Fierce Competition Zack Snyder Never Could
By returning these characters to their younger forms, the series pays homage toDragon Ball‘s origins, creating a full-circle moment as the franchise celebrates its 40th anniversary along with paying tribute to the legendAkira Toriyama. In the same way,Dragon Ball DAIMAbrings a fresher perspective to the franchise by addressing the flaws ofDragon Ball GTand using its premise as a meaningful narrative device.
Dragon Ball DAIMA is currently available to watch on Crunchyroll.
Moumita Chakraborty
Articles Published :931
Moumita Chakraborty is a seasoned Anime Writer at FandomWire with over 900 published articles. Passionate about the vibrant world of Japanese anime, she brings sharp analytical skills and cultural insight to every piece. From dissecting intricate plotlines to spotlighting the latest trends and releases, Moumita’s work resonates with both casual fans and seasoned otakus. Her writing aims to connect with fellow anime enthusiasts while contributing meaningfully to the ever-growing anime community.
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