Whether you're a longtime fan looking to revisit the series or someone new who wants to experience the saga for the first time, understanding the main timeline is key to enjoying this legendary anime to its fullest. Here’s the essential Dragon Ball watching order you need to know, along with some tips on how to best enjoy the series—and get the most out of all the Dragon Ball merchandise you’ll be tempted to collect along the way!

1. Dragon Ball (1986-1989)

Start with the original Dragon Ball series, which introduces us to the young Goku, a Saiyan raised on Earth who embarks on a journey to find the seven Dragon Balls. This series covers Goku’s early adventures, martial arts training, and encounters with friends and foes like Bulma, Master Roshi, and Krillin. It’s essential to watch this first, as it sets up many key characters and storylines that will be central to the entire saga. The tone is light-hearted and comedic, but it gradually builds into the high-stakes battles the franchise is known for.

2. Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996)

Next comes Dragon Ball Z, the most iconic and widely recognized series of the franchise. Picking up five years after the end of Dragon Ball, it follows an older Goku and his friends as they face increasingly powerful enemies, including Vegeta, Frieza, Cell, and Majin Buu. This is where the series takes a more action-packed and dramatic turn, with intense battles, power-ups, and the introduction of Super Saiyans. It’s a must-watch for any fan, as it contains some of the most memorable arcs in anime history.

3. Dragon Ball Super (2015-2018)

After watching Dragon Ball Z, continue with Dragon Ball Super. Set after the defeat of Majin Buu but before the events of the final episode of Dragon Ball Z, Super introduces new gods, universes, and transformations, such as Super Saiyan God and Ultra Instinct. It expands the Dragon Ball universe in exciting ways and brings back many beloved characters for new adventures, blending humor and action in a way that pays homage to the original series.

4. Dragon Ball GT (1996-1997) - Optional

While Dragon Ball GT is considered non-canon by many fans and was not directly created by Akira Toriyama, it still holds a special place in the hearts of some viewers. Set after the events of Dragon Ball Z, it follows Goku, who has been turned back into a child, on a space-faring adventure to collect the Black Star Dragon Balls. GT has its own unique style and tone, and while it’s not necessary for understanding the main timeline, it's worth watching if you're interested in more Dragon Ball content.

5. Dragon Ball Movies

Throughout the series, there are also several movies, some of which are canon, like Dragon Ball Super: Broly and Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero. Others, like Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods and Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F', fit into the Super storyline. For the most complete experience, watch these movies after their corresponding series to see extended and alternative storylines.

Dragon Ball Merchandise: Show Your Fandom

As you immerse yourself in the Dragon Ball universe, you’ll likely find yourself drawn to the vast array of Dragon Ball merchandise that’s available—from action figures of your favorite characters like Goku, Vegeta, and Piccolo, to collectible Dragon Balls, T-shirts, and posters. Merchandise is not just a way to show your fandom; it’s also a connection to the series' iconic moments and characters. With the anime's enduring popularity, you can find everything from high-end statues to playful Funko Pop figures that capture the essence of what makes Dragon Ball so special.

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