For those who think anime is all about screaming and over-the-top action, Dragon Ball might seem like the last place to find a compelling narrative. However, beneath the powering-up sequences and explosive battles lies a series rich with character development, emotional depth, and genuinely exciting stories. This list is designed for the anime-averse, showcasing ten Dragon Ball episodes that might just change their minds. We’ll be focusing on episodes from across the franchise that offer more than just spectacle, delving into character, story and emotion.
1. Dragon Ball Z: “The History of Trunks”
This special episode, sometimes considered a movie due to its extended runtime, presents a bleak, alternate future. Goku is dead, and a devastated Earth is terrorized by Androids 17 and 18. We’re introduced to Future Trunks, a hardened young warrior who seeks to change the past. His mentor, Gohan, is a battle-scarred survivor who tragically falls in the line of duty. This episode is known for its emotional depth and darker tone, offering a stark contrast to the lighter moments of the main series. This is not just a fight, it’s a story of loss, survival, and hope against all odds, which makes it an incredibly moving introduction to the franchise.
2. Dragon Ball Z: “Goku… Super Saiyan?”
This episode marks a turning point in the series and introduces the legendary Super Saiyan transformation. After enduring the death of his best friend Krillin at the hands of Frieza, Goku’s rage explodes, triggering the transformation. This is not just a power-up; it’s a cathartic release and a visual spectacle that solidified Dragon Ball’s place in anime history. The buildup to this moment, combined with the raw emotion it conveys, makes it a must-watch. It showcases the series’ ability to deliver powerful emotional moments amidst its high-octane battles.
3. Dragon Ball Z: “The End of Vegeta”
In this episode, Vegeta, the proud Saiyan prince, faces his end while trying to fight the seemingly invincible Frieza. It is a moment of quiet desperation, a rare vulnerability from Vegeta, who is usually the epitome of pride. His final moments, filled with regrets, highlight the complexities of his character. This episode is significant because it demonstrates the depth of Vegeta beyond his villainous actions and sets the stage for his journey towards being a reluctant hero. It shows that even the most stubborn characters can have powerful moments of transformation and humanity.
4. Dragon Ball Z: “Save the World”
This episode culminates in Gohan’s fight against Cell, where he unleashes his hidden potential to become a Super Saiyan 2. The emotional weight of this episode is intensified by the fact that Gohan, not Goku, is the one to defeat the seemingly unstoppable enemy. The episode showcases a classic Dragon Ball trope; when the heroes are on the ropes, someone manages to pull out a victory, and in this case it’s the quiet, bookish Gohan. It’s a powerful statement on growth, potential, and the passing of the torch. The episode focuses not just on Gohan’s power, but also on the team work, with everyone working together to help Gohan, making it a satisfying victory for the audience.
5. Dragon Ball Z: “Final Atonement”
This is a heart-wrenching episode that sees Vegeta make a final, desperate attempt to destroy Majin Buu through self-destruction. The episode is a powerful study of redemption, as Vegeta, once a cold-hearted villain, sacrifices himself for the greater good. The emotional impact of this episode is profound, highlighting the depth of character development that the series can offer. The title itself refers to Majin Vegeta’s Final Explosion self-destruct maneuver, which is a bold gesture that solidifies the character’s transformation from villain to hero.
6. Dragon Ball Z: “Another Super Saiyan?”
This episode introduces Future Trunks and his epic battle against Frieza and King Cold. It is filled with suspense as the mysterious new warrior effortlessly defeats Frieza, showcasing his immense power. The episode does a great job of creating intrigue and setting up the upcoming threat of the androids. The arrival of Trunks signals a pivotal shift in the narrative, demonstrating that the Dragon Ball universe is far larger and more complex than it seems.
7. Dragon Ball Super: “Goku Enkindled! The Awakened One’s New Ultra Instinct!”
This episode is notable for the introduction of Goku’s Ultra Instinct form. It’s a beautifully animated episode that showcases the culmination of Goku’s training in a stunning display of power against the formidable Jiren. The visuals are spectacular, and the battle is intense, demonstrating the series’ ability to continually evolve. It’s an absolute must watch, not just for the fight, but because it shows that even a character as strong as Goku has room to grow and evolve.
8. Dragon Ball Super: “The Greatest Showdown of All Time! The Ultimate Survival Battle!!”
This episode is the grand finale of the Tournament of Power arc, featuring a tag team effort from Goku and Frieza against Jiren. This episode is a visual spectacle, delivering high-quality animation and intense action sequences. It also shows some character development for the main antagonists, especially Frieza. It’s a culmination of multiple storylines, resulting in a satisfying and exciting conclusion. The collaboration of former rivals to combat a common foe is a testament to the series’ complex dynamics.
9. Dragon Ball: “Goku: Anger At Full Power!!”
This is the culmination of the King Piccolo saga and Goku’s first truly intense battle. This episode showcases the raw emotion and desperation of Goku as he fights King Piccolo, whose power is far beyond anyone he has faced before. The fight has raw, emotional power, making it memorable, even without transformations or high power levels. It’s a pivotal moment in the series that demonstrates Goku’s growth from a lighthearted kid to a determined warrior.
10. Dragon Ball Super: “A Miraculous Conclusion! Farewell, Goku!”
The end of the Tournament of Power arc is full of twists and turns, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats. In this episode, Android 17 is the hero that saves the day, showcasing the series’s ability to elevate unexpected characters. This episode is important because it shows that power isn’t everything, and that other qualities like ingenuity and determination can often lead to victory. It also provides a sense of closure and makes the viewer excited for future installments.
These ten episodes provide a wide look into the Dragon Ball series and prove that there is more to the show than just shouting and fighting. They showcase the emotional depth, complex characters, and engaging storytelling that has made Dragon Ball a global phenomenon. Whether you’re new to anime or a long-time skeptic, these episodes are sure to offer something that may make you rethink your preconceived notions about the genre.
