Dragon Ball Daima Ushers In the Return of a Fan-Favorite Animator: Watch

Dragon Ball Daimahas prioritized adventure over action throughout its opening sections, making sure to properly build and explore the Demon Realm before any large scale fights take place. And while the series has slowly begun to infuse a bit more energy into the lighthearted journey of Goku, Shin, Glorio, and Panzy, its most recent Episode #8, titled, “Tamagami”,finally features one of those classicDragon Ballfights. In search of the Demon Realm Dragon Balls, Goku puts on a show against one of thefearsome Tamigamis.

Hardcore fans ofDragon Ballmay have recognized the animation style ofDaima’s most recent, visually impressive fight sequence. The fast pace and stylish choreography rivals that of the series' best battles for a reason, and it’s likely because many share the same animator overseeing the work. It was revealed that the greatNaotoshi Shida lent his hand in the creation ofDaima’s eighth episode, and the finished product offers the best fight in the series thus far.

Goku firing a Kamehameha at the Tamigami in Daima Episode #9.

Naotoshi Shida Spearheads Daima’s Best Fight Yet

Goku’s Showdown With the Tamigami is Dragon Ball at Its Best

Dragon Ball Daima’s seventh episode ended on quite a cliffhanger, pinning Goku against the Tamigami that the series has spent its entirety building toward. While Naotoshi Shida has proven his proficiency at creating fight sequences with unrelenting motion,Daima’s decision to shrink Goku really works to the series' advantagein terms of allowing for exciting and unique choreography. The fluid action and weighty attacks which define Shida’s work are fully present, and Goku’s smaller body allows the Saiyan to dodge, weave, and slide around the giant Tamigami #3 with precision.

Early in the fight,Goku’s use of the Power Polebrings a new dimension toDragon Ball’s high energy combat. The classic series artifact was largely left behind as the series progressed, and a more powerful Goku making use of it comes across as a celebration of the series' roots.The action truly kicks into gear after he transforms, however, and the battle shifts from the acrobatic martial arts of old to the flashy, over-the-top combat that has come to define Toriyama’s masterwork.

Gogeta Blue in the anime, preparing for battle with a determined expression.

Due in large part to Naotoshi Shida’s trademark fluidity, alongsideDaima’s highly impressive, modern visuals, Goku’s first battle with a Tamigamimakes for the series' most exciting action sequence yet. And the choice to end the fight on a more comedic note perfectly captures the true essence ofDragon Ball.

The Master Animator Has Left His Mark on Dragon Ball

Naotoshi Shida Has Provided Animation For Every Major Dragon Ball Anime

There aren’t many fanbases that would be able to immediately spot the work of a certain animator, butDragon Ballfans are some of the most devoted in the anime sphere, andNaotoshi Shida’s animation is a perfect match for the series. The animator has worked on every majorDragon Ballanime, and has garnered widespread acclaim for his work on several other popular series. His animation is defined by its breakneck speed and smooth, clear movement, and will surely be recognized by many fans duringDragon Ball Super’s Goku Black arc and Broly movie.

Fans expressed concern aboutDragon Ball Daimafollowing the reveal that the cast would be shrunk down, but following the most recent Episode #8, it seems the series has struck aperfect balance between whimsical adventureand high-octane action. As Goku and company progress through the Demon Realm, other powerful opponents are sure to make themselves known, and fans should be on the lookout for more of Naotoshi Shida’s work in the future.