Is Dragon Ball Daima Canon? A Complete Guide to its Official Timeline Placement

For decades, every new entry in the Dragon Ball saga has been met with one crucial question from fans: "Is it canon?" With the arrival of Dragon Ball Daima, that question is more relevant than ever. This guide provides a definitive answer, clarifying its official status, its exact placement in the timeline, and the key events that make it an essential part of the Dragon Ball universe.
The Final Verdict: Is Dragon Ball Daima Canon?
Let's get straight to the point: Yes, Dragon Ball Daima is officially canon.
The series was created with the direct and deep involvement of original author Akira Toriyama, who developed the story and character designs. This fact alone places it firmly within the main storyline.
Produced by Toei Animation, the series is not a side story but a core part of the official narrative. In a statement, executive producer Akio Iyoku confirmed its canonical status, emphasizing that it bridges the gap between major story arcs. For fans who follow the main storyline, this makes Daima a must-watch series.
Dragon Ball Daima's Official Timeline Placement
Understanding where Daima fits is key to appreciating its role in the larger saga. The series is strategically placed to fill a known gap in the story.
- When does it happen?
Dragon Ball Daima takes place after the defeat of Majin Buu in Dragon Ball Z but before the events of Dragon Ball Super. - A Prequel to Super:
The story serves as a direct prequel to Dragon Ball Super. It explores the period of peace following the Buu saga, leading into the era of Gods and multiverses. - Specific Timeline Events:
The first episode helps pinpoint the exact time, showing events that occur before Beerus's arrival and the beginning of Super.
This placement allows the series to expand the lore and develop characters without contradicting the events of Dragon Ball Super.
Key Events and Major Highlights in Dragon Ball Daima
Daima is more than just a filler story; it introduces significant developments and brings back the sense of adventure that defined the original Dragon Ball.
A New Adventure and Returning Characters
The central plot sees Goku, Vegeta, Piccolo, and other beloved Z-Fighters transformed into children by a mysterious conspiracy. This forces them to embark on a grand adventure to a new world to undo the change. This premise brings back the exploration and martial arts focus reminiscent of Goku's earliest journeys.
Major Story Arcs and Universe Expansion
The series is designed to bridge the narrative gap between Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Super. Its arcs delve deeper into the lore of the universe, exploring concepts and realms that were previously only hinted at. This expansion enriches the world and provides new context for the events that follow in Super.
Where to Watch Dragon Ball Daima
For fans eager to dive into this new canonical adventure, the series is available on several major platforms:
- Global Streaming: The series is streaming globally on Crunchyroll.
- Japan: It airs on Fuji TV.
- United States: Viewers in the US can also catch it on Adult Swim's Toonami block.
- Other Platforms: The series is also available on Netflix in many regions.
Conclusion: A Critical Addition to the Franchise
Dragon Ball Daima definitively confirms its canonical status through the direct involvement of Akira Toriyama. By filling the crucial story gap between Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Super, it not only expands the universe's lore but also brings back the spirit of adventure that made the series a global phenomenon. For any fan looking to follow the complete, official Dragon Ball timeline, Daima is a critical and exciting new chapter.