The Dragon Ball Super anime came to an end in 2018, but the Dragon Ball Super manga is still going strong, releasing new chapters every month. The latest chapter, Burst Forth-Light of Death, was released on December 20, 2023. Known for its stunning animation and thrilling action, the Dragon Ball Super anime has amassed a dedicated global fan following.
For those still craving more after the conclusion of the anime, the manga is the perfect way to continue the story. Here is a comprehensive guide to every arc of the series in chronological order, along with a summary of the superhero movie.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers from the Dragon Ball Super manga.
Dragon Ball Super manga arcs guide: Order and recap
Arc 1: God of Destruction Beerus saga (Chapters 1–4)
Goku and Beerus as shown in anime (Image via Toei Animation)
Arc 2: Universe 6 saga (Chapters 5–13)
Beerus, the God of Destruction, awakens and sets out on a mission to locate a Super Saiyan God. Upon arriving on Earth, he easily overpowers its strongest defenders. Goku returns to defend the planet, but even his Super Saiyan forms are not enough to defeat Beerus. It is only when five Saiyans combine their powers that Goku is able to achieve the Super Saiyan God form. This triggers an intense cosmic battle with Beerus. Despite Goku's loss, his unwavering determination earns Earth a reprieve. However, Beerus anticipates another showdown in the future.
The Team Universe 6 is depicted in the Dragon Ball Super manga (Image via Shueisha).
During the Universe 6 Saga, an inter-universe tournament takes place between Universe 6 and Universe 7. Goku and Vegeta confront formidable opponents, Hit and Cabba, while trying to prevent their universes from being erased. An unexpected ally, Monaka, ultimately secures a surprising victory. Additionally, Goku unlocks the Super Saiyan Blue Kaio-Ken technique. The saga introduces a variety of warriors, such as Botamo, Frost, and Magetta. The high-stakes battles and unforeseen alliances make this arc pivotal, expanding the Dragon Ball universe and laying the groundwork for future escapades.
Arc 3: Future Trunks saga (Chapters 14–26)
Future Trunks arc is slightly different in Dragon Ball Super manga (Image via Studio Toei Animation)
The Future Trunks Saga depicts a future in turmoil as the evil Goku Black wreaks havoc with his enigmatic powers. Seeking help, Future Trunks travels to the present timeline where the Z Fighters bravely confront the threat and uncover Goku Black's true identity as Zamasu. Fusion plays a crucial role as Vegeta and Goku combine their powers to form Vegito.
The introduction of the Omni-King, Zeno, adds a new dimension to the saga, as the repercussions of altering time become apparent. Trunks' unwavering determination leads to a climactic battle, touching on themes of sacrifice, despair, and the grave consequences of tampering with the fabric of time.
Arc 4: Tournament of Power saga (Chapters 27–42)
Team Universe 7 as shown in Dragon Ball Super manga (Image via Shueisha)
The Tournament of Power saga puts the existence of multiple universes on the line as 80 warriors from eight universes battle for survival. Led by Goku, Universe 7's team includes fighters like Vegeta, Gohan, and Android 17. Goku faces off against formidable opponents like Jiren from Universe 11, tapping into his Ultra Instinct form to showcase his immense power.
A surprising turn of events occurs when Frieza returns and forms an unexpected alliance, while the self-sacrifice of Android 17 plays a pivotal role in the unfolding events. Despite facing sacrifices, Universe 7 ultimately emerges victorious in the saga, highlighting themes of teamwork, sacrifice, and unwavering determination to survive throughout the arc.
Arc 5: Galactic Patrol Prisoner saga (Chapters 42–67)
Galactic Patrol Prisoner saga as shown in Dragon Ball Super manga (Image via Shueisha)
In the Dragon Ball Super manga's Galactic Patrol Prisoner saga, the notorious villain Moro manages to escape from Galactic Patrol custody, causing chaos as he seeks to acquire the Dragon Balls for his evil plans. Both Goku and Vegeta are pushed to their limits to face this formidable opponent. The saga introduces Merus, a Galactic Patrol agent with unique abilities that become crucial in the intense battles against Moro and his magical powers. The arc ends with a thrilling resolution, highlighting the ongoing evolution of the characters within the Dragon Ball Super manga.
Arc 6: Granolah the Survivor Saga (Chapters 67-87)
Granolah the Survivor saga as shown in Dragon Ball Super manga (Image via Shueisha)
The Granolah the Survivor saga in the Dragon Ball Super manga follows the story of Granolah, the sole survivor of the Cerealian race, seeking vengeance against the Saiyans. The saga unfolds with confrontations, surprising alliances, and long-held grudges coming to light. As Goku and Vegeta confront Granolah's formidable strength, they uncover unexpected truths about the Saiyans' history. This story explores the repercussions of past deeds, deepening the lore of the Dragon Ball Super manga and highlighting the ongoing evolution of the series' narrative.
Arc 7: Super Hero saga (Chapters 88-ongoing)
Super Hero arc is still ongoing in Dragon Ball Super manga (Image via Shueisha)
The Red Ribbon Army makes a menacing comeback in the Dragon Ball Super manga, creating fear in the Super Hero saga. The arrival of two enigmatic androids, Gamma 1 and Gamma 2, puts Piccolo and Gohan in a dangerous position. As Piccolo faces off against Gamma 2, their battle uncovers hidden depths within the Namekian, while Gohan struggles to balance his family life with his resurfacing heroic spirit.
Meanwhile, Goku, still recovering from past battles, rushes to join the fight again, promising an explosive showdown between old rivals and new adversaries. With its gripping mystery and potential for action-packed excitement, the Super Hero saga has fans eagerly awaiting to see who will emerge triumphant in this thrilling chapter.
The Dragon Ball Super manga is still ongoing, but there is speculation that it may be coming to an end soon. This speculation is based on factors such as the imminent release of Dragon Ball Daima, a new addition to the Dragon Ball franchise. However, there has been no official announcement regarding its ending.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z fan of Dragon Ball Super, I am thrilled to see the continuation of the story in the manga. The anime left me wanting more, and I am excited to delve into the new arcs and explore the further adventures of Goku and the Z Fighters. The manga has lived up to my expectations, delivering intense battles, captivating storylines, and character development.
The Super Hero arc has been particularly enjoyable, introducing new characters and villains while expanding the Dragon Ball universe. The manga's artwork is stunning, and the fight scenes are incredibly well-drawn and choreographed. I appreciate the attention to detail and the faithfulness to the original series. Overall, I am thoroughly enjoying the Dragon Ball Super manga and eagerly awaiting each new chapter release.