The longtime executive producer of Dragon Ball, Akio Iyoku, revealed the workings behind the scenes of the next Dragon Ball series, Dragon Ball Daima. Fall 2024 will see the release of the anime, which has character designs by Katsuyoshi Nakatsuru and an original screenplay by Akira Toriyama. Daima marks the 40th anniversary of the 1984 original Dragon Ball debut. Iyoku arrived at Dragon Ball Games Battle Hour 2024 to meet a boisterous crowd. He brought with him an intriguing new character trailer for the audience to enjoy both in person and virtually.
The fluid, high-quality movement that viewers have become accustomed to from the series’ most recent installments is showcased in this new video. Goku eats a wide variety of foods while facing off against new foes. Even though the trailer is titled “Son Goku Character Trailer,” the Daima anime places more of an emphasis on the variety of foods. Another thing to look forward to is the fighting choreography, which is a talent of series directors Yoshitaka Yashima and Aya Komaki. Reiterating Toriyama’s remarks from the discussion at New York Comic Con 2023, Iyoku urged attendees to concentrate on Goku’s Nyoibo.
“The Nyoibo action is one of the important points from the scenario phase that we wanted to showcase with the latest animation expression,” he stated. He wants people who aren’t acquainted with Goku’s early life to be attracted in by the significance of his recognizable pole staff. Given the ardent devotion of fans to the panel, the producer felt compelled to showcase the hitherto unexhibited illustrations by Toriyama.
While Goku’s design was already unveiled at NYCC, Iyoku disclosed that Toriyama modifies each character somewhat during the drawing process. To aid in the staff’s comprehension, Toriyama also inserted the following comment into the picture: “I’ve shrunk Goku’s proportions and made his clothes a little looser.” I also altered the expression on his face. Furthermore, I believe that Kaioshin and Vegeta ought to be the same size as Goku.” Compared to his first design reveal, his visage appears slightly different. Iyoku clarified that under Toriyama’s supervision, they progressively modified the designs as “technology of the visual image” advanced. Every note has a significant message for the entire production, thus the team pays great attention to each one. “Toriyama and I thoroughly examine the details with the production, just like we do with every piece. We meet with the animation staff after those conversations.”
The panelists focused their attention on Krillin’s astonished expression as they read “KAME” inscribed on his shirt. “When I see this, I need to stretch my imagination to understand why Toriyama would make a character pose in a particular way, whether it’s a new or old character,” Iyoku remarked. He was very forthcoming about how he came up with ideas, voicing concepts like a possible Daima world fashion trend or something having to do with Master Roshi.
They presented line art of four de-aged characters on the following slide: Majin Buu, Android 18, Chi-Chi, and Mr. Satan. Iyoku claims that although Toriyama usually forbids the disclosure of such monochromatic drawings, on this particular occasion he gave permission. The three panelists hinted that Buu might not be the same size as the others even though he wasn’t shown in the teaser.
The last group of characters to appear on screen were the adversaries that Goku faces in the teaser. Though they couldn’t go into great detail just yet, the panelists offered some fuel for thought. The fact that all four of the characters are clothed and armed suggests that they are not your typical monsters. In his explanation, Iyoku emphasized that he would translate the anime’s designs while keeping in mind Toriyama’s main points from his note: “It’s a grand adventure.” Iyoku gave the final two characters a close inspection, pointing out the clothing Toriyama wore in his self-portrait. “These illustrations give us an idea that he’s concerned over the practicality and functionality of these items.” The panel host, Matthew, also highlighted how they would use those weapons to fight Goku. Iyoku gave the audience one last hint, instructing them to look at every individual in the trailer as well as the mouthwatering cuisine it features. In the fall of 2024, what kind of planet will Goku be exploring?
Naturally, an exciting conclusion wouldn’t be complete without a legitimate fan shout led by Masako Nozawa’s portrayal of Goku. Through a pre-recorded video, she fully projected her energy while not being present in person. The spectators and participating guests let out a collective “Kamehameha!” at that point.
