Unveiling Dragon Ball's Hidden Secret: The True Meaning and Untold Story of Daima

Toei Animation surprised fans at the New York Comic Con by unveiling the new Dragon Ball Daima and sharing a special message from the series creator Akira Toriyama. Toriyama's involvement in the production ensures that the beloved series is in capable hands. At the NYCC panel, it was revealed that Toriyama played a significant role in designing the characters, plot, and settings for the upcoming anime. This deeper connection to the original manga and the possibility of tying into Dragon Ball Super, the current sequel, make it an exciting prospect for fans. It's fitting that this anniversary celebration of the franchise's 40 years promises a fresh and authentic experience.

Toriyama Reveals The Meaning Behind Daima

Set to debut in 2024, Dragon Ball Daima will bring forth an enticing storyline. A fresh and enigmatic adversary emerges, hatching a malicious plot to transform not only Goku but the entire Dragon Ball ensemble into young versions of themselves. To combat this perilous situation, our beloved heroes embark on an exhilarating journey to an alternate realm, tasked with unraveling this dire predicament.

Originally showcased at the Dragon Ball Daima reveal during Comic Con, Akira Toriyama's message can now be found on the Toei Animation X account. The message delves into the meaning behind the term "Daima", a fictional Japanese word that translates to "Evil" in English. Toriyama also confirms the premise of the upcoming anime, wherein Goku and his companions embark on a quest to regain their original ages in a new universe. Additionally, the message highlights the return of Goku's Nyoibo (Power Pole), which he will rely on to compensate for his small stature, a nostalgic element not seen since the original Dragon Ball series.

During the panel, executive producer Akio Iyoku emphasized Toriyama's extensive involvement in Daima. He revealed that Toriyama had meticulously planned entirely new episodes for the storyline. Being an anniversary project, it comes as no surprise that the show's success is of utmost importance to the entire team. The premise of Goku and the others reverting to their childhood, coupled with other disclosed details, demonstrates the new anime's deliberate homage to the style and narrative of the original manga. The manga itself contained much more evident allusions to the classic tale of Journey to the West.

Toriyama's involvement is crucial in a Dragon Ball installment. GT's lukewarm reception is often blamed on the author's limited contributions, mainly in character designs. Fans can rest assured if the author personally handles the new setting and even some episodes. The reintroduction of the Power Pole is a fantastic way to add diversity to a franchise that is typically associated with energy blasts and powerful punches. By going back to its origins, Dragon Ball Daima has the potential to capture the interest of new viewers while also satisfying the nostalgic cravings of older fans.