Top 10 Best Dragon Ball Sagas Of All Time

For decades, Dragon Ball has been one of the most popular anime franchises worldwide. From its humble beginnings as a manga series to its now iconic status as a global phenomenon, the Dragon Ball universe has captivated audiences with its epic battles, lovable characters, and unforgettable storylines. Throughout the years, the franchise has seen numerous sagas that have left fans on the edge of their seats. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the top 10 best Dragon Ball sagas of all time. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to the series, you won’t want to miss this list.

See more: Dragon Ball Hoodie

Top 10 Best Dragon Ball Sagas, Ranked

1. Android/Cell Saga

Dragon Ball Z, Episodes 118-194
Dragon Ball fans have always been vocal about their favorite sagas in the franchise, and it’s no surprise that the Android/Cell Saga consistently ranks at the top of the list. This particular arc is a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation, with the introduction of Future Trunks adding a new layer of complexity to the storyline.

The Androids themselves serve as a nod to the past, with Dr. Gero’s creations seeking revenge on Goku for his role in the destruction of the Red Ribbon Army. But these aren’t your ordinary villains – Androids 17 and 18 are complex characters with their own motivations, and their battles with Vegeta and Krillin respectively are some of the most memorable in the series.

But the real standout in the Android/Cell Saga is Cell, the ultimate creation of Dr. Gero. This villain is a perfect amalgamation of all the strongest fighters in the Dragon Ball universe, making him a formidable opponent for even the likes of Goku and Vegeta. Cell’s battles with the Z-Fighters are some of the most intense in the franchise, and his transformation into his perfect form is a game-changing moment that sets the stage for the arc’s epic conclusion.

Of course, the true highlight of the Android/Cell Saga is Gohan’s ascension to Super Saiyan 2. This moment has become an iconic part of Dragon Ball lore, and for good reason – it’s a perfect culmination of Gohan’s character development throughout the series. Watching him unleash his full power against Cell is a spine-tingling experience that cements his status as one of the franchise’s most beloved characters.

2. Namek/Frieza Saga

Dragon Ball Z, Episodes 36-107

The Namek and Frieza saga is undoubtedly one of the best Dragon Ball sagas ranked by fans worldwide. This arc spans across two seasons and is filled with action, adventure, and emotional moments that keep fans on the edge of their seats.

At the onset of the Namek arc, our heroes are on a search for the Dragon Balls, which takes them to the planet Namek. However, they are not alone in their quest as two other factions, Frieza’s henchmen, and Vegeta, are also after the magical orbs. The ensuing battles are nothing short of epic as our heroes take on Frieza’s minions, the Ginyu Force. The Ginyu Force is a formidable bunch, and their abilities put our heroes to the test.

As the story progresses, we see Frieza’s true colors, and his evil intentions are revealed. The climactic fight between Goku and Frieza is unforgettable, and it’s where Goku attains the legendary form of Super Saiyan, which is one of the most significant moments in anime history.

However, what makes the Namek and Frieza saga truly great is the emotional weight it carries. The death of Krillin, the bonding between Piccolo and Gohan, and Vegeta’s redemption arc are some of the most memorable moments in the series. The final battle on Namek is a sight to behold, and it’s a testament to the power of friendship and the will to survive.

3. Demon King Piccolo Saga

Dragon Ball, Episodes 102-122

Dragon Ball is a legendary anime franchise that has captured the hearts of millions of fans across the world. From its iconic characters to its epic battles, there’s a reason why Dragon Ball has remained popular for over three decades. And one of the most beloved sagas of the series is the Demon King Piccolo Saga.

The Demon King Piccolo Saga is a turning point for the Dragon Ball series, as it marks the moment when the story shifts from comedy to serious fighting. This saga starts with the death of Krillin, which is the first intense death in the anime, and things only get more intense from there. King Piccolo and his minions bring a sinister presence to the series that has never been seen before.

One of the most compelling aspects of the Demon King Piccolo Saga is the fact that Piccolo truly wins. He accomplishes everything he sets out to do, and the rest of the Dragon Ball series is spent undoing his actions. Piccolo is the first villain in Dragon Ball to feel truly unstoppable, and this makes for an incredibly gripping storyline.

4. Saiyan Saga

Dragon Ball Z, Episodes 1-35
The Saiyan Saga is widely regarded as one of the best Dragon Ball sagas and for good reason. It marks the beginning of Dragon Ball Z and sets the stage for the epic battles and character development that follow.

One of the reasons that the Saiyan Saga is so beloved by fans is that it features some of the most iconic moments in the series. The arrival of Raditz, Goku’s long-lost brother, is a major shock and sets the tone for the rest of the saga. Later, the battle between Goku and Vegeta is a highlight of the entire Dragon Ball franchise, showcasing some incredible fight scenes and character development.

But what really makes the Saiyan Saga stand out is the involvement of the other characters. Tien, Yamcha, and Chiaotzu all have their moments to shine, but it’s Piccolo who steals the show. As one of the main antagonists of the original Dragon Ball series, Piccolo is a complex and fascinating character. In the Saiyan Saga, he undergoes a major transformation, going from villain to hero and taking on the role of Gohan’s surrogate father. This character development is truly remarkable and sets the stage for the rest of the series.

Overall, the Saiyan Saga is a must-watch for any Dragon Ball fan. Whether you’re new to the series or a longtime fan, this saga is a perfect introduction to the world of Dragon Ball Z. And if you’re looking to rank the best Dragon Ball sagas, the Saiyan Saga is sure to be near the top of the list. With its iconic moments, incredible character development, and epic battles, it’s no wonder that fans continue to love and revisit this saga time and time again.

5. 23rd World Martial Arts Tournament

Dragon Ball Z, Episodes 123-153
The Dragon Ball franchise has been a staple in the anime and manga world for decades. Fans have followed the adventures of Goku and his friends through numerous sagas, but one of the most iconic and unforgettable arcs is the 23rd World Martial Arts Tournament.

This saga marks the end of the original Dragon Ball series and sets the stage for the events that follow in Dragon Ball Z. The stakes are high as Goku faces off against Piccolo Jr., the spawn of the Demon King Piccolo, who seeks revenge against Goku and threatens to destroy the world.

What makes the 23rd World Martial Arts Tournament so memorable is the intense battle between Goku and Piccolo. The fight is brutal, and the tension is palpable as the two warriors face off in a battle to the death. The fight showcases the true strength and determination of Goku as he fights with everything he has to save the world.

The tournament itself is also a highlight of the saga, as Goku and his friends face off against some of the strongest warriors in the world. Fans are treated to exciting battles and surprising twists as the tournament progresses.

But the saga isn’t just about fighting. It also explores the relationships between the characters as they grow and evolve. Goku’s marriage to Chi-Chi is a major plot point, and his friendships with Krillin and Master Roshi are put to the test as they compete against each other in the tournament.

6. God of Destruction Beerus Arc

Dragon Ball Super, Episodes 1-14
Dragon Ball has always been known for its epic battles and intense action scenes, but the God of Destruction Beerus arc takes a different approach. It’s all about the build-up to the final showdown, as Beerus awakens from his slumber and sets out to find the Super Saiyan God that he saw in a dream.

What makes this arc so entertaining is the fact that the majority of it is spent trying not to fight. The characters are forced to find other ways to solve problems, using their brains instead of their brawn. This change of pace is a welcome addition to the series, showing that Dragon Ball can be more than just a series of epic fights.

Of course, when the final battle does come, it’s nothing short of amazing. Super Saiyan God Goku takes on Beerus in an epic showdown that will leave you on the edge of your seat. The animation is top-notch, and the fight choreography is some of the best in the series.

But where does the God of Destruction Beerus arc rank among the best Dragon Ball sagas? It’s certainly up there, thanks to its unique approach and epic conclusion. However, there are still other sagas that stand out as some of the best in the series.

For example, the Frieza saga is often considered one of the best Dragon Ball sagas of all time. It features some of the most memorable moments in the series, such as Goku transforming into a Super Saiyan for the first time. The battle between Goku and Frieza is also one of the most intense in the entire series.

Then there’s the Cell saga, which features some of the most iconic moments in the series. From Gohan’s transformation into a Super Saiyan 2 to Goku sacrificing himself to save the world, this saga has it all. Plus, the final battle between Gohan and Cell is one of the most satisfying in the entire series.

7. Buu Arc

Dragon Ball Z, Episodes 200-287
Dragon Ball Z is one of the most beloved anime franchises of all time, and it’s no secret that the Buu arc is one of the most debated sagas of the series. While it has some of the most memorable fights and scenes in the entire franchise, many fans remember it less fondly than previous DBZ arcs. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the Buu arc, its strengths and weaknesses, and how it ranks among the other Dragon Ball sagas.

First, let’s start with the positives. The Buu arc has some truly great moments, such as the epic fight between Majin Vegeta and Goku. This battle showcased the full power of both characters, and the emotional weight of Vegeta’s sacrifice is still felt by fans today. Additionally, Goku’s transformation into Super Saiyan 3 is one of the most iconic scenes in the entire series. It’s a moment that fans have been waiting for since the beginning of Dragon Ball Z, and it did not disappoint.

Another highlight of the Buu arc is the concept of fusion. The idea of two characters fusing together to become stronger was introduced in the Fusion arc, and it was a major part of the Buu arc as well. The fusion of Goten and Trunks to become Gotenks was a hilarious and entertaining addition to the series. However, despite the emphasis on fusion, it ultimately had little bearing on how the Buu arc wrapped up.

Now, let’s move on to the negatives. One of the biggest issues with the Buu arc is its pacing. The saga feels stretched out and poorly structured, with plot points that don’t pan out quite right. It spends much of its time propping up the next generation of fighters, only for Goku to once again save the day. This can be frustrating for fans who were hoping for a more satisfying conclusion.

Despite its flaws, the Buu arc is still a major part of the Dragon Ball Z legacy. However, when it comes to ranking the sagas of the series, it’s difficult to place it at the top of the list. The Saiyan arc and the Frieza arc are often considered the best Dragon Ball sagas, thanks to their strong character development, intense battles, and emotional moments. The Cell arc is also a fan favorite, with its unique premise and unforgettable moments such as Gohan’s transformation into a Super Saiyan 2.

8. 21st World Martial Arts Tournament

Dragon Ball, Episodes 14-28
The 21st World Martial Arts Tournament is one of the most memorable sagas in the Dragon Ball series. This early arc may be overshadowed by the later super-powered arcs, but it offers the best of early Dragon Ball: humor, martial arts, and unforgettable battles.

In a world where martial arts are taken seriously, the 21st World Martial Arts Tournament is the ultimate test of strength and skill. Our hero Goku enters the tournament with his friends Krillin and Yamcha, eager to prove themselves against the best fighters in the world.

The tournament is full of hilarious moments, from Yamcha’s fear of women to Krillin’s lack of a nose. But the highlight of the saga is the battle between Goku and the legendary Master Roshi, who enters the tournament in disguise as Jackie Chun.

The fight between Goku and Jackie Chun is a masterpiece of martial arts. The two combatants are evenly matched, and their techniques are a sight to behold. The battle is not just about brute strength, but also about strategy and skill.

The 21st World Martial Arts Tournament may be short, but it is one of the most unforgettable sagas in the Dragon Ball series. The humor, martial arts, and unforgettable battles make it a fan favorite. It’s no wonder that it ranks high on the list of best Dragon Ball sagas.

9. The Shadow Dragons Arc

Dragon Ball GT, Episodes 48-64
Dragon Ball GT is a series that often gets a bad rap, but one of its final arcs, The Shadow Dragons, is undoubtedly one of the highest points in the entire Dragon Ball saga. In fact, it’s so ingenious that it deserves recognition for its unique and captivating storyline.

The Shadow Dragons arc begins with the heroes trying to undo the damage caused by Hell opening up. Unfortunately, they quickly discover that they have exhausted all the energy the Dragon Balls have to offer, which has corrupted the balls into seven evil Dragons. What follows is a journey to fight the Dragon Balls themselves, a concept that is both mind-bending and thrilling.

While the idea of fighting the Dragon Balls themselves isn’t fully utilized, it still remains a captivating concept that culminates in Dragon Ball GT’s ending. It’s an ending that is so perfect for the series that it almost makes you forget the disappointment that was the rest of GT. The Shadow Dragons arc takes what could have been a forgettable storyline and turns it into an epic conclusion that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

When it comes to ranking the best Dragon Ball sagas, The Shadow Dragons arc is undoubtedly a top contender. It’s a rare example of a series taking a risk and it pays off in spades. By introducing a unique concept and using it to its fullest potential, The Shadow Dragons arc proves that even a series as long-running as Dragon Ball can still surprise and captivate its audience.

Overall, The Shadow Dragons arc is a testament to the power of creative storytelling. It’s proof that even in a series with as many sagas as Dragon Ball, there is always room for something new and exciting. So, if you’re a fan of the Dragon Ball franchise or simply looking for a captivating storyline, The Shadow Dragons arc is not to be missed.

10. Universe Survival Arc

Dragon Ball Super, Episodes 77-131

The Universe Survival Arc is one of the most talked-about sagas in the Dragon Ball franchise. Fans have been eagerly awaiting this final arc of Dragon Ball Super, and it did not disappoint. This saga is full of action-packed moments, new characters, and old favorites returning. However, as with any saga, there are some noticeable flaws.

When it comes to ranking the best Dragon Ball sagas, the Universe Survival Arc undoubtedly makes the list. It offers fans a massive tournament between the many universes of Dragon Ball, with each universe bringing its own unique set of fighters. The stakes are high, and the action is intense.

One of the highlights of this saga is the introduction of new characters. Fans were excited to see the likes of Jiren, Toppo, and Dyspo take the stage. These characters added a fresh dynamic to the series, with their unique abilities and personalities.

However, the biggest flaw of the Universe Survival Arc lies in its antagonist, Jiren. While many of the side characters are cool and interesting, Jiren falls flat. He is a boring and one-dimensional character who lacks any real depth. It is telling that Goku Black, the antagonist of the Future Trunks Saga, is a far more memorable adversary than Jiren.

Despite this, the Universe Survival Arc offers some of the best battles in the entire franchise. Fans were treated to some incredible moments, including the epic showdown between Goku and Jiren. The action is non-stop, and the animation is some of the best we’ve seen in the series.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Dragon Ball franchise has produced numerous sagas that have captured the hearts of fans worldwide. From the classic Saiyan saga to the epic Tournament of Power, each saga has its own unique elements that make it stand out. It’s no wonder that Dragon Ball remains a beloved franchise even after all these years. Whether you prefer intense battles, emotional character development, or comedic moments, there is a saga for everyone in the Dragon Ball universe. The top 10 sagas on this list represent the very best of what Dragon Ball has to offer and are not to be missed by any fan of the series.

Read more:

• Will Vegeta Become A God Of Destruction?
• Top 12 Strongest Goku Transformations, Ranked
• Top 15 Strongest Dragon Ball Super Characters