Breaking: The Evolution of ‘Dragon Ball’ and Goku’s Iconic Tail
Since Akira Toriyama started publishing ‘Dragon Ball,’ the story and its protagonists have undergone numerous transformations. Initially a blend of comedy and martial arts, the series evolved into a cosmic adventure filled with space invaders and intense action.
Goku’s Journey and the Loss of His Tail
The character who changed the most throughout the series was Goku. From his early appearances to becoming a grandfather, Goku has evolved significantly. One of the most notable changes was the removal of his iconic monkey tail.
Toriyama explained that drawing the tail in every vignette was a laborious task. “Every time I drew that tail added afterwards, it ended up being a tremendous fattening,” he said in an interview. This practical consideration led to the tail’s removal in a pivotal scene where Kami cut it off to restore the moon.
The Influence of ‘Journey to the West’
Originally, ‘Dragon Ball’ and Goku were heavily influenced by ‘Journey to the West,’ with the monkey tail being a significant feature. However, aside from his transformation into a giant monkey, the tail didn’t contribute much to the story, prompting Toriyama to eliminate it.
In the early stages, Toriyama experimented with cutting Goku’s tail several times. Eventually, he found a suitable excuse within the narrative for its removal. Nevertheless, he faced another challenge when he introduced tailed Saiyans like Gohan, Vegeta, and Raditz, but these tails were less cumbersome and easier to draw.
Evergreen Insights into ‘Dragon Ball’
‘Dragon Ball’ has left an indelible mark on the world of manga and anime. Its evolution from a light-hearted adventure to a complex cosmic saga showcases Toriyama’s ability to adapt and innovate. Understanding these changes not only enriches the viewing experience but also highlights the practical considerations that go into creating such a beloved series.
For fans eager to dive deeper into the world of ‘Dragon Ball,’ exploring the series’ rich history and the creative process behind its evolution can provide valuable insights. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a global phenomenon, ‘Dragon Ball’ continues to captivate audiences with its thrilling storytelling and memorable characters.
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Want to know more about Akira Toriyama’s masterpiece? Check out our comprehensive guides on where to watch ‘Dragon Ball’ and the full list of series and movies available for streaming.
