2024 was a monumental year for theDragon Ballfranchise. In March, fans around the world were heartbroken by the sudden passing of Akira Toriyama, the legendary creator behind the series. Then, in October,Dragon Ball Daimapremiered on Japanese TV. Set roughly a year after Kid Buu’s defeat inDragon Ball Z, the new series became the final anime project Toriyama worked on as a creative force.
Some longtime fans were surprised to seeDragon Ball Daimadepict Goku as a child once again, along with other major characters—Vegeta, Piccolo, and more—sporting smaller body proportions.This raised questions about whetherDaimawas designed primarily as a kids' showrather than a trueDragon Ballsequel. Now, executive producer Akio Iyoku has addressed these concerns ina new interview, shedding light on the creative vision Toriyama had for the series.
Was Dragon Ball Daima Made for Kids?
A Controversial Creative Choice
When asked whetherDragon Ball Daimawas created with children in mind, executive producer Akio Iyoku explained thatthere was no strict effort to target any specific audience. He noted that he doesn’t plan ahead with a particular demographic in mind because “it would be a weird work if I tried to target them too precisely, andI didn’t have the idea of making it just for kids.” However, he acknowledged taking a broader approach this time, saying he wanted as many people as possible to enjoyDaima. “I was conscious of things like making it interesting for kids and creating something that parents would be happy to show to their children.”
Iyoku revealed thatDragon Ball Daimaoriginated during the production of theDragon Ball Super: Super Heroanime when the team suggested trying something new.That idea sparked Akira Toriyama’s interest, leading him to create the entire story, along with the character designs, mechanics, and world-building. “I feel that he was more involved than ever before,” Iyoku noted.
Toriyama’s Vision Lives on in Dragon Ball Daima
A Fitting Tribute to a Legend
Keeping the characters small was entirely Toriyama’s vision. And, asDragon Ball Daimacontinues its run, Iyoku stands by one of the show’s key creative choices: “The characters are all small, but I hope people will find those designs interesting in their own way.”
With Toriyama’s signature creativity woven into every aspect of the series,Dragon Ball Daimastands as a fitting tribute to his legacy. It may not be strictly a kids’ show—but it’s one that fans, both young and old, can grow to appreciate.
