2024 was a monumental year for the Dragon Ball Daima premiered on Japanese TV. Set roughly a year after Kid Buu’s defeat in Dragon Ball Z, the new series became the final anime project Toriyama worked on as a creative force.
Some longtime fans were surprised to see Dragon Ball Daima depict Goku as a child once again, along with other major characters—Vegeta, Piccolo, and more—sporting smaller body proportions. This raised questions about whether Daima was designed primarily as a kids' show rather than a true Dragon Ball sequel. Now, executive producer Akio Iyoku has addressed these concerns in a new interview, shedding light on the creative vision Toriyama had for the series.
Was Dragon Ball Daima Made for Kids?
A Controversial Creative Choice
When asked whether Dragon Ball Daima was created with children in mind, executive producer Akio Iyoku explained that there was no strict effort to target any specific audience. He noted that he doesn’t plan ahead with a particular demographic in mind because “it would be a weird work if I tried to target them too precisely, and I didn’t have the idea of making it just for kids.” However, he acknowledged taking a broader approach this time, saying he wanted as many people as possible to enjoy Daima. “I was conscious of things like making it interesting for kids and creating something that parents would be happy to show to their children.”
Iyoku revealed that Dragon Ball Daima originated during the production of the Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero anime when the team suggested trying something new. That idea sparked Akira Toriyama’s interest, leading him to create the entire story, along with the character designs, mechanics, and world-building. “I feel that he was more involved than ever before,” Iyoku noted.
Toriyama’s Vision Lives on in Dragon Ball Daima
A Fitting Tribute to a Legend
Keeping the characters small was entirely Toriyama’s vision. And, as Dragon Ball Daima continues its run, Iyoku stands by one of the show’s key creative choices: “The characters are all small, but I hope people will find those designs interesting in their own way.”
With Toriyama’s signature creativity woven into every aspect of the series, Dragon Ball Daima stands as a fitting tribute to his legacy. It may not be strictly a kids’ show—but it’s one that fans, both young and old, can grow to appreciate.
Source: Tokyo Shimbun
