It’s hard to believe, but the world of Dragon Ball turned 40 this year and it still packs more punch than a Kamehameha in full flight. What began as a quirky manga in Japan in 1984 has grown into a worldwide cultural titan, captivating fans across continents with its epic battles, unforgettable characters, and jaw-dropping transformations. Like a Saiyan growing stronger after every challenge, Dragon Ball has continued to evolve and push its limits, becoming one of the most recognisable franchises in anime history. Whether you grew up watching Goku chasing after Dragon Balls on a dodgy VHS or you’ve just discovered the series on a streaming platform, there’s no denying its lasting impact. From Dragon Ball to Dragon Ball Z, Super, and beyond, this saga has created a legacy of loyalty and passion. In this article, we’ll dive into the milestones, characters, and moments that have made this universe a global phenomenon.
How did Dragon Ball start and why did it become so popular?
The origin story of Dragon Ball feels almost mythical now much like the series itself. Created by Akira Toriyama in 1984, it began as a light-hearted action-comedy inspired by the Chinese tale Journey to the West. But it quickly evolved, swapping light adventures for high-stakes martial arts tournaments, planet-shattering battles and emotional growth arcs. What kept people hooked wasn’t just the fights it was the heart. Characters like Goku, a simple yet powerful boy with a tail and a love for training, represented more than just physical strength. He embodied determination, purity, and a never-give-up attitude. These core values made the show universally relatable, whether you were a kid on the Gold Coast or a teenager in Tokyo.
With each new arc from the original series through to Dragon Ball Z and Super the stakes grew. Villains became more menacing, and transformations became cultural moments. Who could forget the first time Goku turned Super Saiyan on Namek? That roar of fury and golden hair changed anime forever. The franchise’s rise in Australia began in the ‘90s, when Dragon Ball Z aired on morning TV. Suddenly, lunchboxes were covered in Goku art, kids debated who was stronger between Gohan and Vegeta, and bootleg figures started showing up at weekend markets. Now, with streaming services and dedicated anime shops like this Dragon Ball figures collection, fans have more access than ever.
Why does Dragon Ball still matter in 2025?
It’s one thing to be a hit in the ‘80s. It’s another to stay relevant four decades later. Dragon Ball has managed both and that’s no accident. In recent years, Dragon Ball Super reinvigorated the franchise with new gods, universes and transformations like Ultra Instinct. It connected older fans to their childhood while attracting new viewers with faster animation and deeper lore. In fact, some of the most streamed anime moments of the past decade belong to Super.
There’s also something timeless about the themes: growth through challenge, loyalty to friends, the importance of second chances. These aren’t just battle cries they’re life lessons. Whether you’re training at a gym in Sydney or browsing an anime shop in Melbourne, that motivation to improve, to push beyond your limits, still resonates. The merchandise game has also exploded. From collector’s items and high-end statues to casual Dragon Ball hoodies, the series has adapted to modern fan culture. Even major Australian anime conventions now dedicate entire sections to Dragon Ball cosplay, tournaments and figure displays. So yes, while other franchises fade, Dragon Ball keeps rising like Goku after a Spirit Bomb fail.
See also: How Krav Maga Builds Confidence and Real-Life Self-Defense Skills
The most iconic characters and their lasting impact
Some anime have flashy fights. Others have deep stories. Dragon Ball somehow balances both, largely thanks to its legendary characters.
Goku: the eternal optimist
From the start, Goku has been the symbol of growth. Each time he’s defeated, he trains harder. Each time he wins, he respects his opponent. This combination of humility and power makes him more than a hero he’s a role model. His transformations, especially Super Saiyan and Ultra Instinct, aren’t just visual spectacles. They represent the emotional breakthroughs that come from overcoming limits. No wonder millions around the world still look to Goku for inspiration.
Vegeta: the pride of the Saiyan race
Where Goku is light, Vegeta is shadow but that duality creates the series’ emotional core. His journey from arrogant prince to loyal protector is one of the most complex in anime. And let’s be honest, some of his best moments (“My Bulma!”) hit harder than a Final Flash. Other characters like Piccolo, Gohan, Trunks, and even newer ones like Beerus and Jiren have also carved out unforgettable moments. Each adds a layer to the rich world Toriyama built.
How Dragon Ball influenced pop culture around the world
Dragon Ball didn’t just stay within anime circles it exploded into global culture. From Kanye West referencing it in lyrics, to UFC fighters mimicking Goku’s training, the impact has been everywhere. Even sports broadcasts now use phrases like “power level” and “going Super Saiyan.” This widespread influence also changed how anime was viewed in the West. Before Dragon Ball, anime was niche. After it? It became cool. Cosplayers, TikTokers, athletes many wear their love for the series openly. Dragon Ball helped normalise being an anime fan, especially in countries like Australia where it once felt like a small subculture. Even non-anime fans often know who Goku is. That’s rare. That’s legacy. Here’s what made Dragon Ball unforgettable for fans around the globe:
- explosive transformations
- powerful rivalries
- unbreakable friendships
- life-changing battles
- deep character arcs
What to expect from Dragon Ball’s future
Despite being four decades old, Dragon Ball’s story is far from over. With the Dragon Ball Super manga continuing strong and a new anime project on the horizon (Dragon Ball Daima), the next generation is about to experience their own saga. Animation quality is reaching cinematic levels. Storylines are getting more complex. And the fandom? It’s more connected than ever, thanks to global social media communities and fan conventions across cities like Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide. As new characters rise and old legends return, Dragon Ball promises to remain a universal tale of strength, loyalty, and transformation. The flame burns brighter than ever and fans across Australia are still riding the Nimbus cloud.
A legacy carved in energy blasts and heart
Dragon Ball isn’t just a manga. It’s a shared memory, a philosophy, a roar of power that still echoes across generations. Its 40th anniversary isn’t just a milestone it’s proof that some stories never stop growing. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just stepping into this universe, the adventure continues. What’s your favourite Dragon Ball moment?
