Following the success of the original *Dragon Ball* anime, *Dragon Ball Z* became even more popular around the world. Based on Akira Toriyama’s manga, *DBZ* picks up the story after a time jump, with Goku now married to Chi-Chi and father to a four-year-old son named Gohan. While the first *Dragon Ball* anime established the series’ core story, *DBZ* introduced stronger enemies and delved deeper into Goku’s background. From revealing the truth about his birth to showcasing incredible battles against alien foes, *DBZ* delivered some of the most thrilling moments in anime history.
I remember watching Dragon Ball Z and being completely blown away by the Super Saiyan transformations – they really changed anime and inspired so many artists after it. It’s interesting because Funimation split the series into sixteen different story arcs when they dubbed it, but the original Japanese version by Toei Animation only had four major arcs. Each one brought a new challenge and even stronger enemies, forcing Goku and the Z Fighters to constantly get better. Honestly, they were all great, and it’s hard to pick a favorite, but some arcs definitely stand out more than others.
4) Saiyan Saga
Dragon Ball Z starts with a compelling introduction: Goku isn’t human – he’s an alien sent to Earth as a baby with the original purpose of destroying the planet. He’s part of the powerful Saiyan race, who work for the ruthless Frieza, taking over planets and selling them for money. But despite being a Saiyan, Goku has no intention of letting his people harm the Earth he now calls home.
The Saiyan Saga expands the Dragon Ball universe by introducing other members of Goku’s race, including his brother Raditz, Nappa, and the popular Prince Vegeta. This part of the story also firmly establishes Gohan as a key character, showcasing his incredible potential at just four years old – even more so than Goku’s.
3) Buu Saga
The Buu Saga concludes the long-running Dragon Ball story created by Akira Toriyama, but not without delivering exciting events like the World Martial Arts Tournament, powerful fusion techniques, and the debut of Super Saiyan 3. The saga begins seven years after the defeat of Cell, with Goku briefly returning to Earth to compete in the tournament. Despite being gone for seven years, trouble quickly finds him.
Two enigmatic figures warn of a supremely powerful wizard’s plan to release an unbelievably strong ancient creature onto the world. The story quickly shifts from the tournament to the battle against Majin Buu, all happening in just one day. Despite not featuring a Super Saiyan transformation, Buu’s defeat remains one of Goku’s most memorable victories.
2) Cell Saga
This story is packed with everything you love in action adventures: time travel, different worlds, characters changing, heartbreaking moments, incredible power boosts, and a whole cast of villains. Cell, one of the most memorable villains in the series, really pushed the Z Warriors to their limits—and seemed to enjoy it! The story begins with Dr. Gero, a brilliant but cruel scientist, seeking revenge on Goku by creating incredibly powerful androids. These aren’t just strong; their power is nearly impossible to measure, and they’re far more powerful than even a Super Saiyan.
Even with years of preparation thanks to Future Trunks’ warning, the Z Warriors were no match for the androids. Cell emerged as the biggest danger, and surprisingly, it was eleven-year-old Gohan who held the key to defeating him, unlocking the powerful Super Saiyan 2 transformation.
1) Frieza Saga
The *Dragon Ball* series, and shonen anime as a whole, is filled with unforgettable scenes, but few compare to the excitement of Goku’s first transformation into a Super Saiyan. This pivotal moment occurs during the Frieza Saga, which unfolds on the planet Namek. Bulma’s quest to gather the Dragon Balls unexpectedly leads her into conflict with the incredibly powerful Frieza Force, quickly turning Namek into a battlefield.
The battle takes a dark turn when Frieza arrives and quickly defeats Vegeta. Goku and his friends fight bravely, but they can’t overcome the powerful villain. Just when it seems like they’re doomed, Goku unlocks a legendary power-up – a transformation that Frieza dreads. Goku doesn’t just win; he completely dominates Frieza, and this incredible change becomes a popular element in action-packed anime and manga.
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2025-10-12 23:10