In the wake of Akira Toriyama’s tragic passing on March 1st, due to acute subdural hematoma, the world of anime has found itself at a crossroads. The creator of the iconic Dragon Ball series, which has captivated audiences globally for decades, leaves behind a legacy that is both monumental and imbued with questions about the future. As news of his death broke out, a wave of mourning has swept across social media platforms, forums, and subreddits, bringing fans together in their shared grief and sparking a pivotal question: What now for Dragon Ball?
The Heart of the Matter: Dragon Ball’s Future Without Akira Toriyama
At the heart of this collective introspection lies Dragon Ball Daima, a beacon of hope and controversy. Announced with much anticipation, this project was to be a testament to Toriyama’s continued influence and direct involvement in the franchise, especially with his studio, Bird, taking the helm. This development brings forth pressing questions about the ownership and continuation of the Dragon Ball franchise, including the rights held by Toei, Shakeisha, and Bandai Namco, and the specific fate of Dragon Ball Daima under Bird Studio’s aegis.
Rest in peace to Akira Toriyama, the creator of the Dragon Ball series
Our childhood hero and an inspiration to all other anime/manga
R.I.P Akira Toriyama pic.twitter.com/WSx7R9eSPU
— Sumit (@SumitHansd) March 8, 2024
The Dividing Line: Dragon Ball Before and After Akira Toriyama
Understanding the potential trajectory of Dragon Ball in a post-Toriyama world necessitates a look back at its evolution. The franchise, which seamlessly transitioned from Toriyama’s manga to an anime phenomenon under TOEI Animation, expanded its reach and diversified its content over the years. This expansion included new game titles like Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 4, the ongoing manga series Dragon Ball Super, and speculation about further anime adaptations.
Each of these ventures reflects a piece of the Dragon Ball saga that may continue to thrive, even as we mourn Toriyama’s loss.
A Closer Look: The Future of Dragon Ball Games and Super
The resilience of Dragon Ball is perhaps most evident in its gaming adaptations and the Dragon Ball Super manga.
While Toriyama’s involvement varied across these platforms, the essence of his creation remained intact, guided by the hands of other talented individuals like Toyotaro. This suggests that while Toriyama’s direct influence will be profoundly missed, the foundation he built is strong enough to support continued growth and innovation within the franchise.
Intellectual Property and Posthumous Creativity: A Complex Legacy
The question of intellectual property rights and their transfer after an author’s death is complex and multifaceted. By examining the precedents set by other posthumous creative endeavors, such as Astroboy and Berserk, we gain insight into how Dragon Ball might navigate this uncertain future. Similarly, the examples of Superman’s rights elucidate the potential for a character or franchise to evolve beyond its creator’s direct involvement, driven by a combination of legal rights and creative stewardship.
Dragon Ball Daima: A Fork in the Road
Dragon Ball Daima stands at a critical juncture, embodying the challenges and opportunities faced by the franchise in the wake of Toriyama’s passing. The project’s heavy reliance on Toriyama’s direct input for its character design, animation, and storytelling raises questions about its viability. Yet, the legacy of Dragon Ball is not solely defined by its latest ventures but by a rich tapestry of stories, characters, and worlds that have transcended their origins.
A Legacy Unbroken
As we navigate this period of mourning and reflection, the future of Dragon Ball, including the fate of Dragon Ball Daima, remains uncertain. However, the enduring love and passion of its global fanbase, coupled with the foundational work laid by Akira Toriyama, suggest that the franchise will continue to inspire and entertain for generations to come.
The spirit of Dragon Ball, characterized by endless adventure, resilience, and the pursuit of greatness, mirrors the legacy of its creator—a legacy that, even in his absence, continues to light the way forward.
